Protecting Freedom of Expression & Religion in Canada
The Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops respectfully urges the Government of Canada to ensure that Bill C-9 does not remove the religious-text defence from the Criminal Code. We believe that upholding the constitutional rights to freedom of religion, expression, and pluralism is a fundamental element of our national identity and a “free and democratic society,” as declared by the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms. We are committed to working constructively to ensure legislation aimed at reducing hate does not inadvertently undermine the freedoms that sustain a healthy, diverse, and democratic Canada.
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