Department of Communication Studies opposition to Bill 21

We, the members of Department of Communication Studies at Concordia University, affirm our opposition to Québec's Bill 21, “Loi sur la laïcité de l’État,” as it discriminates specifically against one group, Muslim women who wear face coverings. This discrimination is by no means necessitated by public security or any other cogent reason. The real effect of this law will be to restrict women’s access to services and public space. It is clear to us that the new law contravenes the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms, Québec's Charte des droits et libertés de la personne, and Concordia University’s policies regarding “civility, equity, respect, non-discrimination, and an appreciation of diversity” and the rights of all members of the University to “freedom of conscience and religion; freedom of thought, belief, opinion and expression” (Concordia Policy BD-3). We urge the University and all the unions representing University employees to join us in our stance.