Opponents of a law on the secularism of the state in Quebec, which prohibits the wearing of religious symbols to certain officials, demanded Monday, November 2 its annulment in court, on the grounds that it discriminates against religious minorities.
This law, adopted in June 2019, prohibits the wearing of religious symbols by police officers, judges, lawyers, prison guards and teachers in the public sector in the exercise of their functions.
It only applies to new recruits, serving officials benefiting from an acquired right.
Read also: Quebec secularism is debating in Canada
A Muslim teacher, Ichrak Nourel Hak, who wears the hijab, explained to the Superior Court of Quebec that the law had shattered her dream of a career in public education.
She said she
"felt excluded from Quebec society"
, according to the account of her testimony made by the public channel CBC.
“I am a Muslim woman but I am also a citizen of Quebec,”
added the young woman, a recent graduate who went to private education, excluded from the law.
The teacher is supported in her challenge by the National Council of Canadian Muslims and the Canadian Civil Liberties Association, which deem the law
"cruel"
.
Read also: "Secularism: France inspires Quebec!"
Quebec law is at odds with the multiculturalist positions defended by the Liberal Prime Minister of Canada Justin Trudeau.
In theory, it contravenes the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms, a constitutional document protecting, in particular, freedom of religion and the right to equality.
However, it is accompanied by a constitutional provision allowing the Government of Quebec to evade the application of the Charter for five years.
The Superior Court of Quebec must hear the arguments of both parties for at least five weeks.
The law is supported by a majority of public opinion, according to polls.