Inclusive speech, divisive promise

Re: “Notwithstanding clause to be used if needed to ban religious symbols” (Montreal Gazette, Oct. 3)

Well, at least his victory speech was inclusive. François Legault told us he’d be the premier of all Quebecers. Someone should have asked him to define “all” because less than 24 hours later, he was musing about legislating how adults be allowed to dress.

The recently defeated Liberal government is not above reproach in this matter, having passed the risible Bill 62, key provisions of which were promptly and correctly sidelined by the courts. At least the Couillard government had the decency to seem somewhat embarrassed by its own efforts.

In contrast, Premier-designate Legault has doubled down and pulled a “Ford,” promising to use the notwithstanding clause should the courts strike down Coalition Avenir Québec legislation on this issue.

If the CAQ proceeds with this initiative, it will divide Quebec, it will be messy and it will be internationally remarked upon. Most important, I would argue, it would be wrong. Such a course of action will violate our values. Why else would the Quebec Charter of Human Rights and Freedoms need to be modified, something Legault said his government would do? For what other reason would the notwithstanding clause need to be used but to violate the religious rights of minorities?

Before we embark down this path, let’s all take a collective breath and think about who we are and what kind of society we want. To paraphrase a famous political figure in Quebec, we will be judged by how we treat our minorities.

Angelo Philippas, N.D.G.