EFC Concerned Over Bill C-9’s Impact on Religious Speech Protections

As Canada ushers in Bill C-9, a heated debate emerges regarding its implications on free speech, particularly in religious discourse. The recent legislative change stirs concern among religious groups who fear a potential erosion of their ability to express religious beliefs freely.

With Bill C-9’s enactment, individuals making controversial religious remarks will no longer have the “good faith” legal defense to lean on. This legislative amendment will become active once it receives Royal Assent.

Before the bill’s approval, Finnish politician Päivi Räsänen cautioned against laws that might constrain freedom of expression, drawing from her own prolonged legal challenges in Finland over past communications.

Among those voicing apprehension, the Evangelical Fellowship of Canada (EFC) highlighted the necessity of retaining the “good faith” defense, asserting that its elimination could be detrimental.

Despite these changes, three defenses against accusations of wilful promotion of hatred remain intact: proving statements are true, beneficial to the public, or cited for criticism.

The EFC pointed out the rarity of charges for promoting hatred, attributing it to the legal requirement of intent to incite hatred against a specific group. Additionally, the law does not extend to private exchanges.

Historically, defenses rooted in religious belief have not succeeded when the law has been applied.

Following the bill’s passage, the EFC expressed its intention to “monitor the effects” of the legislative change.

“It is not clear what impact the removal of the religious belief defence will have over time, and whether its removal could broaden the understanding of ‘wilful promotion of hatred,'” the EFC stated.

Meanwhile, the Canadian justice minister reassured that individuals could still engage in religious activities like praying, preaching, and interpreting scripture in good faith without fearing criminal repercussions.

In a statement, the EFC mentioned, “We would welcome an approach that makes clear that the good faith practice and expression of religious belief isn’t a hate crime to begin with.”

The organization further emphasized, “The EFC will monitor the effects of Bill C-9 and will continue to advocate for freedom of religion and belief.”