This month, Minister Fraser introduced Bill C-9, the Combatting Hate Act, in the House of Commons. In response to the alarming rise in hate crimes across Canada, this legislation aims to strengthen protections for communities affected by hate and ensure that all Canadians can live free from fear, discrimination, and violence. You can follow this bills progress here: C-9 (45-1) - LEGISinfo - Parliament of Canada.
Bill C-9 proposes a new intimidation offence that would make illegal to physically obstruct, or intimidate to prevent access to, a space used primarily by an identifiable group for religious, educational, social, cultural, or sporting activities—this means mosques & synagogues, schools, cultural community centers, and more. New amendments would also prohibit the public display of certain symbols with the intent to promote hatred against an identifiable group.
To be clear, this is not bubble-zone legislation, and does not affect Canadians’ Charter rights to protest, strike, or express political opposition.The new offence would not criminalize the mere public display of hate or terrorism symbols. Rather, it would prohibit the public display of certain symbols with the intent to promote hatred against an identifiable group.
Everyone should feel safe in our communities, and Canada should be a place where you can publicly celebrate your identity with your community safely.
You can learn more about this bill here: Canada introduces legislation to combat hate crimes, intimidation, and obstruction - Canada.ca