Statement on Bill 21

December 10th, 2021

Like many Canadians, I am deeply concerned by the impacts that Bill 21 has on Canadians’ freedom of expression and freedom of religion. Canadians should never be forced to choose between their religion, their identity, and their profession. Most importantly, no Canadian should ever lose their job for expressing their religion. Such a concept is fundamentally wrong and in stark contrast to the kind of open, tolerant society we have fostered in Canada.

The impact of Bill 21 on Canadians’ freedom of religion is not abstract. Religious symbols are an integral part of many Canadians’ identities and sincerely held religious beliefs. Because of Bill 21, and the Quebec National Assembly’s broader affinity for secularism, minority communities and religiously observant citizens are being unfairly targeted for visibly expressing their religion.

Bill 21 has built a culture where Quebecers must hide their affiliations in order to participate in society. The quest for equality cannot be fulfilled by the suppression of fundamental freedoms.

This is not an issue which should be confined to the Province of Quebec, nor should it be dismissed through claims of provincial jurisdiction. Bill 21 is a manifestation of intolerant and xenophobic sentiments—a symptom of the greater problem of systemic inequality. While Canada has made great progress in building a tolerant society, we have much work to do to ensure every citizen has an equal right to participate in society—uninhibited by their religious expression.

Canadian governments at all levels have an unwavering commitment to the principles of freedom of religion and expression. We cannot in good conscience stand idly by and allow this Bill to go unchallenged, for what we permit, we promote.

While provincial jurisdiction must be acknowledged, we cannot rule out the necessity of federal intervention when the fundamental rights of Canadians are challenged.

I stand with Canadians and share in their condemnation of Bill 21.

Jenna Sudds
Member of Parliament, Kanata—Carleton