A women’s group is trying to ban teachers in Quebec from wearing religious objects such as yarmulkes.
The Quebec Council on the Status of Women, which advises the government on issues relating to women, argues that religious articles such as the hijab, a veil worn by religious Muslim women, and the nijab, which covers the entire face, are oppressive to women.
The ban would include large Christian crosses, Sikh turbans and yarmulkes, according to Canada’s National Post.
The proposed ban stressed the protection of Quebec culture and the religious neutrality of state institutions.
In 1995, the council fought to allow students on the verge of being expelled to be allowed to wear a hijab to public school.
Help ensure Jewish news remains accessible to all. Your donation to the Jewish Telegraphic Agency powers the trusted journalism that has connected Jewish communities worldwide for more than 100 years. With your help, JTA can continue to deliver vital news and insights. Donate today.
