(Canadian Press) An opposition bill aimed at fighting Islamophobia and other hate crimes was tabled in Ontario’s legislature Wednesday, but it was unclear if it would receive the support of the majority Progressive Conservative government.
The bill from the New Democrats, if passed, would establish a provincial review of hate crimes and hate-motivated incidents that happen in Ontario.
It would also designate safe zones around houses of worship, prevent white supremacist groups from registering as societies and establish an anti-racism council that would provide input on government policies.
The bill, which was created with the National Council of Canadian Muslims and follows similar recommendations put forward by that organization, would also present new tools for schools to combat racism. Additionally, it would empower the speaker to ban protests at the legislature that promote hate.
