Montréal — The proposed Quebec Charter of Values breaches fundamental freedoms enshrined in both the Canadian and Quebec Charter of Rights according to B’nai Brith Canada. The Jewish human rights organization finds it completely unacceptable that the government is choosing to ignore the fundamental rights and freedoms of minorities in Quebec. Instead of promoting equality and justice and seeking a better society for all, the proposed Charter of Values discriminates against persons of faith and transforms them into second class citizens.
“The Charter of Values discriminates against religious minorities by denying their right to religious expression,” said Me Allan Adel, National Chair of the League for Human Rights of B’nai Brith Canada. “This is one of the most unconstitutional moves a Government can make – the very notion that the Government will be in the business of deciding what constitutes a ‘large and conspicuous’ religious item is simply ludicrous.”
“It is most surprising that the party of Rene Levesque, who was extremely sensitive to the condition of Quebec minorities, would choose to follow such an unjust path. Quebecers and indeed all Canadians must be allowed to exercise their fundamental right of religious expression. We were pleased to see that the Federal Government has indicated their preparedness to mount a constitutional challenge. The League, with its proven record of defending human rights, is prepared to intervene should it be necessary.”
For more information please contact: Harvey Levine,
514-733-5377 x127 or hlevine@bnaibrith.ca.