Quebec plan to ban public prayers sparks backlash from Muslim groups, rights advocates
The push comes after tensions over Muslim prayers held during demonstrations for Palestinian rights in the city of Montreal
MONTREAL, Canada (MNTV) – The Quebec government plans to introduce legislation banning prayers in public spaces, a move Muslim groups and civil rights advocates say unfairly targets religious communities.
Stephen Brown, CEO of the National Council of Canadian Muslims, called the proposal “absurd,” arguing that public prayers are neither new nor dangerous and noting that other communities also gather in public without restrictions. He said the measure is a political strategy to boost the governing Coalition Avenir Quebec (CAQ) ahead of next year’s provincial election.
The push comes after tensions over Muslim prayers held during demonstrations for Palestinian rights, including outside Montreal’s Notre-Dame Basilica. While organizers had secured permits, CAQ officials expressed concern. “What are we going to start doing in Quebec? Mandating that you get your messaging approved by the government before you’re given a permit to protest?” Brown asked in an interview with CTV.
An independent committee recently made 50 recommendations to reinforce secularism in Quebec but stopped short of calling for a provincewide ban, suggesting municipalities regulate prayers locally.
Cote-Saint-Luc Mayor Mitchell Brownstein welcomed the province’s direction, saying local governments should intervene if public prayers disrupt order.
Political analyst and former NDP leader Tom Mulcair said the move highlights the CAQ’s vulnerability, noting Premier Francois Legault is appealing to unease among parts of his base toward Muslims.
Secularism Minister Jean-François Roberge confirmed he was tasked by Legault to “strengthen secularism” and intends to deliver.
The Canadian Constitution Foundation (CCF) also condemned the plan, calling it an assault on religious freedom. Litigation Director Christine Van Geyn described it as government overreach and “hostility to people of faith.”
CCF Counsel Josh Dehaas said existing laws on street blockades and noise could address concerns without punishing entire religious communities. The group, which has challenged Quebec’s Bill 21 and its school prayer ban, urged close scrutiny of the proposed legislation.
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