Brampton city council and local faith leaders are urging Ottawa to reconsider proposed changes to federal anti-hate legislation, warning that the measures could unintentionally restrict freedom of expression and religion protected under Canada’s Charter of Rights and Freedoms.
At its Jan. 21 meeting, Brampton council unanimously voted to send a letter to the federal government opposing aspects of Bill C-9, also known as the Combatting Hate Act. The bill has passed second reading and is currently before committee.
The motion followed a letter from Patrick Brown, which was circulated publicly by the Canadian Muslim Public Affairs Council, outlining concerns about a proposed amendment to the Criminal Code.
Concerns over removal of religious exemption
Brown and council object specifically to the proposed removal of a long-standing “good-faith religious expression” exemption under section 319(3)(b) of the Criminal Code. That provision currently protects individuals from prosecution for expressing religious opinions in good faith, including teachings based on religious texts.
In his letter, Brown said eliminating the exemption represents a significant shift that could expose routine religious activities — such as sermons or theological discussions — to criminal complaints or investigations.
“Brampton residents strongly support effective action to combat hate-motivated violence and intimidation,” Brown wrote. “At the same time, Canadians expect criminal law to remain clear, balanced, and consistent with the Charter of Rights and Freedoms.”
Council echoed those concerns, saying the change could undermine constitutionally protected freedoms while creating legal uncertainty for faith communities.
Faith groups back council’s position
The Interfaith Council of Peel and the National Council of Canadian Muslims both voiced support for council’s objection.
NCCM student advocacy officer Basmah Ramadan told council the group supports efforts to prevent hate, but fears the amendment could harm religious freedom.
“It puts a lot of faith leaders and faith institutions in jeopardy,” said ICP co-chair Urz Heer.
Bill C-9 still broadly supported
Despite their opposition to the amendment, Brown and council stressed they do not oppose Bill C-9 as a whole. The legislation aims to amend the Criminal Code by introducing new hate-related offences, expanding definitions of hatred, and addressing intimidation and obstruction linked to hate-motivated conduct.
Brampton itself passed a related bylaw in 2024 banning “nuisance demonstrations” within 100 metres of places of worship following a violent protest at a Hindu temple, a move council cited as evidence it supports firm action against hate.
Jewish organizations urge swift passage
Meanwhile, several Jewish advocacy groups continue to press the federal government to move quickly on Bill C-9, citing rising antisemitism and recent violent attacks abroad.
Organizations including B’nai Brith Canada, the Centre for Israel and Jewish Affairs, and others issued a joint statement earlier this month calling for strengthened provisions and faster passage of the bill.
“Words of condemnation are not enough,” the statement read. “We urge Parliament to act now to provide law enforcement with stronger tools to keep communities safe.”
Next steps
Bill C-9 remains under committee review, and its final form may change before becoming law. Brampton council and local faith leaders say they hope federal lawmakers will revise the legislation to ensure hate is addressed decisively — without compromising fundamental freedoms guaranteed by the Charter.