The supreme crusade against the secularism of the Quebec state is dangerous

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The challenge to Bill 21, the State Secularism Act recently validated by the Quebec Court of Appeal, found a new echo before the Supreme Court of Canada (SCC). The English Montreal School Board (CSEM), historically critical of this law, is now supported by the Autonomous Education Federation (FAE), amplifying the issue of the debate.

These institutions not only question the constitutionality of Bill 21, but also the anticipated application of the notwithstanding clause which aims to protect it.

If the CSC sides with the CSEM and the FAE, Quebec could plunge into an era of discord and notable division.

Roots and reasons: Understanding Law 21

Bill 21 in Quebec cannot be reduced to a simple legislative dispute; it represents a complex intertwining of the threads of history, identity and individual freedoms in Quebec.

At the heart of Quebec identity, secularism emerges from a past marked by the domination of the Catholic Church, where modern Quebec society strives to preserve a public space free from any direct religious influence.

Law 21 was promulgated with the intention of guaranteeing this religious neutrality of the State.

Despite the controversies, the majority of Quebecers maintain that this measure is crucial to maintaining cohesion and authentic fairness within society, by preventing any perception of state favoritism towards a specific belief.

The debate sparked by Law 21 revealed deep divisions, confronting two visions of living together: one where neutrality guarantees fairness, and another where it can seem coercive.

Potential Implications of Judicial Disability

The invalidation of Bill 21 by the SCC would have broad repercussions, affecting not only the legislative framework but also the social and cultural spheres of Quebec.

Such a decision would notably risk unnecessarily reviving old fractures, exacerbating tensions and polarizations within society, and further compromising the feeling of national belonging.

It could also be seen as a fundamental questioning of Quebec values ​​of secularism and neutrality, negatively affecting relations between Quebec and the federal government.

The consequences could significantly transform the socio-political landscape of Quebec, also influencing the perception and daily practice of secularism.

This challenge challenges every citizen, inviting in-depth reflection on the values ​​that we wish to promote and defend in Quebec society.

Faced with this crossroads, it becomes imperative to clearly and perpetually enshrine the type of secularism that we desire for the future of Quebec.

Like any society, Quebec is not perfect, but it offers a unique framework for thinking about questions of coexistence and identity. And it’s precious!