Mississauga City Council Opposes Quebec’s Bill 21

Mississauga City Council approved a motion today opposing Quebec’s Bill 21.  The motion endorses the nationwide initiative proposed by Calgary City Council in conjunction with the Canadian Coalition of Municipalities Against Racism and Discrimination that addresses the harms of Bill 21 and its impact to the unity, reputation and well-being of Canada.

The motion passed unanimously.

“I’m proud today that Mississauga Council took a stand against discrimination and division by passing a motion in opposition to Bill 21,” said Mayor Bonnie Crombie.

“Mississauga has not been immune to racism and discrimination, but I am proud that our City and this Council have always made their voice heard. Mississauga is a multi-cultural, socially diverse, and inclusive City. As Canadians, we value our rights enshrined in the Charter of Rights and Freedoms and believe everyone is entitled to the exercise of freedom of thought, conscience or religion. No one should be denied their right to express their faith, especially not by the state. We urge the federal government to intervene in this case and send a strong signal to all Canadians that discrimination in Canada, no matter where it occurs, will not be tolerated.”

In addition to opposing Quebec’s Bill 21 which prohibits public servants from wearing religious identification while at work, the motion supports in principle the legal challenge against the discrimination of freedom of religion proposed in Quebec’s Bill 21.

The motion outlines Mississauga Council’s support of building a welcoming City where everyone has access to opportunity and prosperity and that this is an issue of national importance with ramifications across the country.

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• Equity Diversity and Inclusion (EDI)