Religious Leaders Speak out in Favour of Religious Freedom in Montreal

30 Oct 2026

Montreal - October 28, 2026) The Conseil National des Québécois Musulmans (CNQM) holds a media availability in Montreal in response to Quebec Education Minister Joël Arseneau’s declaration that the Parti Québécois government’s commitment to prohibit students from wearing religious symbols is “non-negotiable.” The proposed ban would affect children who wear religious symbols and attire, including hijabs, kippahs and turbans, in Quebec’s primary schools. The announcement has raised serious concerns about religious freedom, equal access to public education, and the place of religious minorities in Quebec society. School leaders have also warned that such a prohibition could undermine relationships between schools and families and that targeting children is not a good public policy goal. Advocates from multiple faith groups, including Stephen Brown, CEO of CNQM, will address the implications of the proposed policy and the importance of protecting children’s fundamental rights, regardless of their faith.