The Coalition Avenir Québec government is proposing a new law that would prohibit public workers in positions of authority from wearing religious symbols such as a hijab, kippa or turban. The ban would apply to Quebec Crown prosecutors, judges and any public employee who carries a firearm, as well as teachers and principals. A crucifix above the Speaker's chair in the Quebec National Assembly has been described by some politicians more as a symbol of Quebec's heritage, not an item representing Christian faith. Religious groups warn of 'diminishing' rightsReligious groups were quick to condemn the law as unfairly targeting minorities. Quebec Minister of Immigration, Diversity and Inclusion Simon Jolin-Barrette says he hopes for a respectful debate as his government's secularism bill moves through the National Assembly.

Source: CBC News March 28, 2019 08:00 UTC