(CBC) At the Québec Solidaire national council this weekend in Montreal, two camps emerged on the issue of religious symbols: one of secularism and one of inclusion.
While the party already supports the banning of religious symbols worn by police officers, judges, crown prosecutors and prison guards, some in the party want to go further — banning public servants including teachers from wearing clothing such as turbans and hijabs.
“Public services must be given in a neutral manner, without interference or bias,” said Lise Boivin, who is part of the wing advocating for a complete ban of religious symbols worn by public servants.
That wing of the party finds itself in agreement with Premier François Legault, who said the day after his victory that he would use the Constitution’s notwithstanding clause to pass such a ban if necessary.
