Religious freedom motion passes in Ontario

[rug]

Move is direct response to Quebec proposal banning religious symbols in the workplace

By JTA September 23, 2013, 4:00 pm

TORONTO — A motion introduced by a Jewish legislator in Ontario to reaffirm the Canadian province’s commitment to religious freedom passed unanimously.

Monte Kwinter, a veteran Liberal member of the Provincial Parliament, introduced the motion as a direct response to a Quebec proposal that would ban religious symbols in the workplace. The Ontario motion passed on Sept. 19.

Speaking of potential immigrants to Canada, Kwinter told the Globe and Mail, “When they hear that one province is doing something, they assume that Canada is doing it and it creates a negative image.

“People are saying is that going to happen in Ontario? And all we’re trying to do is reassure them that we would not support anything that would in any way put our ethnic communities, our cultural communities at risk in the way they’re being put at risk in Quebec.”

http://www.timesofisrael.com/religious-freedom-motion-passes-in-ontario/

[cbayer]

1. Good, though I don't think Quebec gives a damn about what they do in Ontario.

[bowens43]

2. Very sad. This would have be a good first step fo any civilized nation.

[cbayer]

3. I'm not clear on what you are saying here.

Are you advocating for people being prohibited from wearing clothing or jewelry that reflects their religious beliefs?

[Jim__]

4. That's good news.

[LostOne4Ever]

5. I want to say this is a good thing

But the religious right here in America has got me completely paranoid.

I don't support the Quebec law, and based on the linked article it SOUNDS like something I would support. But if there is any loopholes in this that allows for religious discrimination like allowing florists to refuse service to a gay wedding then I am completely opposed.

Im certain that Canada is much better on this sort of thing than we are...but I am hesitant to support something like this without knowing about any fine print

[cbayer]

6. That's a good point, but this seems quite narrowly focused on individual expression:

“should oppose any legislation that would restrict or prohibit people’s freedom of expression and religion in public places and affirms that Ontario greatly values our diverse population and the social, cultural and economic contributions they make to help our society thrive.”