The Canadian Liberal government plans to introduce a new law on Friday that would criminalize the intentional promotion of hatred against identifiable groups in public using specific hate- or terrorism-related symbols such as swastikas, as reported by CBC News. The legislation includes symbols linked to terrorist entities listed by Canada, including the Proud Boys, Hamas, and Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps. If enacted, the law would prohibit individuals from promoting hatred against Jewish people by displaying Hamas flags or swastika signs near a synagogue.
This initiative is part of the government’s efforts to address the increasing number of hate incidents in Canada, particularly antisemitism and Islamophobia. Criticism from the Conservative party has been directed at the government for its perceived inaction despite communities seeking assistance for the past two years.
Jewish and Muslim organizations have expressed frustration over the delayed additional protection following a surge in violent acts, vandalism, and hate crimes targeting them, their places of worship, and other establishments. These incidents range from shootings and fires to vandalism and harassment at places of worship.
Statistics Canada reported a significant increase in police-reported hate crimes across the country, rising from 2,646 incidents in 2020 to 4,882 in 2024. The proposed legislation aims not only to address intimidation and obstruction of individuals entering religious and cultural sites but also to streamline the legal process for hate propaganda charges.
The new law seeks to eliminate the requirement for prosecutors to obtain consent from provincial attorney generals to pursue charges related to hate propaganda offenses. These offenses include advocating genocide, inciting hatred, and promoting antisemitism. However, concerns have been raised about potential violations of Charter rights, including freedom of thought and expression.
Justice Minister and Attorney General Sean Fraser emphasized the importance of balancing free speech with public safety, citing guidance from the Supreme Court on this matter. The government aims to allow peaceful protests while combatting hate crimes in communities and religious institutions.
The National Council of Canadian Muslims has urged for a balanced approach in the upcoming legislation to protect individuals from harassment while safeguarding the right to peaceful protest. Recent incidents, such as threats to a mosque in Newmarket, Ontario, have underscored the urgent need for action against hate-motivated crimes.
Noah Shack of the Centre for Israel and Jewish Affairs praised the bill as a positive step forward but called for more stringent enforcement of existing laws, addressing gaps in anti-terror legislation, and enhancing community security measures. The Conservative party has expressed readiness to review the legislation upon its introduction, highlighting past proposals for changes that were not acted upon by the current government.