Public institutions in Quebec, from university campuses to Montreal’s Metro network, are making changes to comply with Law 9, an expanded secularism law that came into full effect on September 1. The law, which builds upon the existing religious symbols ban introduced in 2019 under Bill 21, now extends restrictions to include daycare staff and prohibits prayer rooms in various settings.
Concordia University and McGill University have removed prayer spaces, with signage and furnishings taken down. Vanier College has closed its prayer room and directed Muslim students to a nearby mosque for prayers. However, religious practice in chapels at certain universities remains permissible.
In response to the law, institutions are working on implementing processes for religious accommodation requests and handling complaints. The STM, Montreal’s public transit agency, has informed employees that prayer on workplace premises is no longer allowed. The agency has designated specific rooms for silent activities like meditation but not for prayer.
Legal experts have raised concerns about the vague enforcement guidelines under Law 9, leaving institutions uncertain about how to navigate compliance and address non-compliance. Penalties for violations can range from $125 to $1,125. Critics argue that the law goes beyond addressing real issues and instead aims to eliminate visible religious symbols from public institutions.
The Fédération de la santé et des services sociaux-CSN is monitoring the impact of the law on daycare workers, while the STM is enforcing the ban on workplace prayer. The complexity of enforcing the law and ensuring compliance remains a challenge for institutions, prompting calls for clearer guidance from the government.
