Canada’s Parliament has approved Bill C-9, clearing the way for the legislation to receive Royal Assent and become law, despite continued objections from religious leaders, constitutional experts, and free speech advocates who warn it could have significant consequences for freedom of expression and religious liberty.
The bill returned to the House of Commons after the Senate adopted a late amendment adding the noose to the list of recognized hate symbols. On June 17, Members of Parliament voted against a motion introduced by Conservative MP Andrew Lawton that sought to withdraw the legislation before its final passage.
Following the vote, Lawton criticized the outcome, stating on social media that “The Liberals and Bloc Québécois voted down my motion to withdraw the divisive and toxic Bill C-9 to stand up for freedom of expression and freedom of religion,” according to reporting by LifeSiteNews.
Lawton also noted that opposition to the bill extended beyond partisan lines. According to LifeSiteNews, he observed that “opposition to this bill has come from the political left and right, from civil liberties groups and a range of faith organizations.”
The legislation amends Canada’s Criminal Code and removes Section 319(3)(b), a provision that has historically protected the good-faith expression of religious beliefs based on sacred texts, including the Bible. Critics argue that eliminating this protection could expose Christians and other religious believers to criminal liability for publicly expressing traditional religious teachings on controversial moral issues.
Conservative MP Brad Redekopp described the bill’s passage as a serious setback for religious freedom. According to LifeSiteNews, Redekopp wrote, “Today is a dark day in Canadian history.”
He further warned that the legislation represents “an assault on religious freedom that removes longstanding protections for Canadians expressing sincerely held beliefs,” adding that Conservatives would continue efforts to restore those protections.
Catholic leaders have also expressed concern about the bill’s implications. Cardinal Frank Leo, Archbishop of Toronto, recently urged senators to reconsider aspects of the legislation. According to LifeSiteNews, Cardinal Leo acknowledged “the importance of addressing hatred and protecting individuals and communities from violence” while arguing that changes to the bill were still necessary.
The debate surrounding Bill C-9 has highlighted the difficult balance between combating genuine hate crimes and preserving fundamental freedoms. Constitutional experts cited by LifeSiteNews have argued that the legislation could grant authorities broad powers to investigate or prosecute speech deemed hateful, raising concerns about subjective interpretations and potential impacts on religious expression.
Pro-life and faith-based organizations have likewise voiced opposition. Campaign Life Coalition criticized the bill’s advancement through Parliament, with national president Jeff Gunnarson declaring, according to LifeSiteNews, “This is a dark day for religious freedom and free speech in Canada.”
As the legislation moves toward Royal Assent, many Christian organizations, religious leaders, and civil liberties advocates are expected to continue monitoring its implementation and evaluating its impact on the ability of Canadians to publicly express their faith and religious convictions.
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