The Muslim Association of Canada Opposes Bill C-9 and Rejects the Government’s Amendment on Religious Expression 

After months of widespread concern about the removal of the religious expression protection under Section 319(3)(b) of the Criminal Code, the federal government has introduced new language to Bill C-9, stating that it clarifies protections for religious and public-interest speech.

However, the original protection has not been restored, which is what the community called for. The amendment simply states that such speech is permitted unless it “willfully promotes hatred.” This does not reinstate the removed defence. It merely restates the existing legal threshold.

In practical terms, the risk remains.

Imams, scholars, or worshippers could still face investigation if hatred is alleged. The amendment does not prevent complaints or legal action and leaves interpretation to systems that have previously misapplied Islamic teachings and that are not immune from bias or hostility toward Muslims.

MAC stands alongside numerous faith organizations across Canada in opposing Bill C-9 in its entirety and specifically rejecting the Bloc Québécois amendment that removed the long-standing religious expression protection. This is a shared concern about the erosion of freedom of religion and freedom of expression in Canada.

We have also heard directly from congregations across our mosques. Canadian Muslims understand that this bill disproportionately affects Palestinian advocates and Muslim faith leaders and that religious expression can easily be mischaracterized.

MAC maintains its position. The religious expression protection must be fully reinstated as it existed, and Bill C-9 in its current form should not proceed.

We support strong action against hate. But legislation must be built in genuine partnership with affected communities.

Canadian Muslim leaders communicated this directly to the Prime Minister during their recent meeting with him. Consultation must occur before legislation moves forward, not after protections have been weakened.