By William Crooks
Local Journalism Initiative
Premier François Legault’s Dec. 6 comments about potentially banning public prayer have drawn sharp criticism from members of religious communities in the Eastern Townships, who see the proposal as politically motivated, dismissive of Quebec’s diverse faith traditions, and potentially divisive.
Legault suggested banning public prayer, claiming it was inappropriate in shared spaces. According to a report by Global News, Legault’s remarks came amid concerns over secularism following an incident at a Laval school where a teacher allegedly facilitated prayers during class time. This latest proposal has sparked heated debate, particularly as Quebec’s secularism laws already prohibit public officials from wearing visible religious symbols. Critics argue that such measures disproportionately target minority groups and deepen social divides.
The Rover highlighted the Laval case as part of a larger trend of escalating tensions over religion in public spaces. The premier’s remarks have reignited these concerns, prompting locals to speak out in recent interviews against what they see as an overreach.
Coughlin: “Pandering, not policy”
Reverend Ronald Coughlin of the United Church in Lennoxville denounced Legault’s proposal as shortsighted and politically motivated. “It feels like he’s creating policy on the back of a napkin,” said Coughlin. “This is pandering to nationalism, not thoughtful governance.”
Coughlin fears the long-term impact on community cohesion and Quebec’s reputation for inclusivity. “When disasters happen, people pray in public spaces—for hope, for solidarity. Are we going to ban that, too? This is not a forward-thinking move,” he added.
He also criticized the inconsistency of Quebec’s secularism policies. “People go to St. Joseph’s Oratory, spending hours on their knees praying. Is he going to ban that? The rules seem to target visible practices, especially those by Muslims. Christians often wear crosses under their clothes, which aren’t scrutinized in the same way,” he said.
Coughlin pointed to cenotaph prayers, which the military has adapted to be more inclusive. “This is a good example of how prayer can bring people together without excluding anyone. The government should learn from this approach rather than creating unnecessary fear around prayer in public spaces,” he said.
