The newly proposed Charter of Quebec Values includes a ban on “overt and conspicuous religious symbols worn by government employees.” The possibility of this ban has led many religious people to protest. Over 1,000 people marched through city streets on Saturday to protest the proposal.
So What?
Governmental agencies certainly have responsibility for determining what is and what is not appropriate for their employees to wear. Citizens, however, can and should speak up when they feel the guidelines keep people of faith from holding such jobs due to inappropriately strict restrictions about the public display of religious symbols.
- Do you feel the proposal is appropriate or not? Explain.
- Do you believe the proposal treats adherents of all religions equally or not? Explain.
- Do you regularly wear a religious symbol or garment? If so, do you also wear such to your job?