The Current What’s behind Quebec’s sweeping secularism bill
Nov 28, 2025
Michel C. Auger, a seasoned political columnist for La Presse and Radio-Canada, dives into Quebec's new secularism legislation. He discusses how this law, banning religious symbols in public sectors, claims to promote equality while raising concerns among religious groups. Auger reveals the government's political motives amid declining approval ratings and the approaching election. He explores public support, backlash from minorities, and links the legislation to broader political issues, including the province's economic challenges and opposition party dynamics.
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Secularism Bill As Electoral Strategy
- Quebec's new secularism bill is largely an electoral move ahead of the October election.
- Michel C. Auger says the government tightened existing measures to remind voters of past action and regain support.
Vague Rules Create Practical Uncertainty
- The bill targets daycare workers, dietary options, and prayer spaces with vague rules about 'transmission of faith'.
- Auger highlights ambiguity around events like school Christmas or Hanukkah parties and whether they count as religious manifestations.
Policy Framed To Rescue Polling
- The government frames the bill as necessary even though Auger links it to poor poll results.
- He argues the measures respond more to political survival than new public-policy needs.