Quebec Premier Proposes Ban on Public Prayer and Tighter Secularism Laws in Schools
François Legault's government plans new legislation targeting public religious practices and reinforcing secularism in response to reports of Islamist influences in schools.
- Quebec Premier François Legault announced plans to legislate against public prayer in parks and streets, citing concerns about secularism and Quebec's values.
- The proposed measures follow reports of Muslim students praying in schools and alleged Islamist practices by some teachers, including limiting girls' participation in sports.
- Education Minister Bernard Drainville confirmed that 17 schools are under investigation for potential violations of Quebec's secularism law, with a detailed report expected in January.
- The government is considering invoking the notwithstanding clause to bypass constitutional challenges to any new legislation restricting public prayer.
- The Canadian Muslim Forum criticized Legault's comments, arguing they unfairly target Quebec's Muslim community and contribute to a climate of discrimination.
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