Western Quebec School Board opposes legislation on religious symbols

Western Quebec School Board opposes legislation on religious symbols

In a press release issued Friday, by the WQSB or Western Quebec School Board, they expressed their opposition to Bill 21 or the Act respecting the laicism of the state, in particular to the sections prohibiting ‘teachers and school principals from wearing religious symbols while performing their duties.’ They specified their school board’s belief in freedom of expression, respect, tolerance and acceptance of others, saying: ”We believe that the cultural and religious diversity in our schools and centres are a source of strength and should be celebrated”.

The Chairman of the WQSB, Alain Guy, added ”Western Québec believes a religious symbol worn by an educator does not have an impact on their ability to teach and provide quality education for our students. Our schools are inclusive learning environments where students are taught about tolerance, diversity and respect.”

The WQBS applies an Equal Access Employment Program within the school board. A link to the press release is available here.