The Archdiocese of Edmonton is calling on Catholics across Alberta and Canada to take immediate action as concerns intensify over the federal government’s proposed Bill C-9 – the Combating Hate Act – and its potential impact on religious freedom.
The Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops (CCCB) issued an open letter Dec. 4 to Prime Minister Mark Carney urging the government to halt its plan to remove the long-standing religious-text exemption from Canada’s hate-speech laws. The letter was also sent to key federal officials. Catholic leaders warn that eliminating this protection could place legitimate religious teaching and pastoral ministry at risk.
Read Canadian Bishops’ Letter to Prime Minister
Why This Matters
The proposed amendment would repeal Criminal Code clause 319(3)(b), which currently ensures that individuals cannot be convicted of hate-speech offences for expressing, in good faith, opinions rooted in Scripture or religious belief.
Multiple faith communities—Christian, Jewish, Muslim, Sikh, and others—have expressed unified alarm. They caution that removing this defence could chill ordinary religious speech and create uncertainty for homilies, catechesis, pastoral counselling, marriage preparation, youth ministry, and online evangelization.
More than 6,000 Canadians have already signed petitions calling on the government to preserve the exemption.
The Archdiocese of Edmonton is urging Catholics not to wait for others to speak up. Your action is essential.
What You Can Do Right Now
Contact Your Member of Parliament—Today
Tell your MP you oppose removing the religious-text exemption in Bill C-9. Share your concerns about how the amendment could affect preaching, teaching, pastoral care, and the Church’s public witness.
Even a brief message makes a difference. Constituency offices track every call and email.
Read and Share the CCCB’s Letter
See the letter to the Prime Minister:
- English letter (PDF): https://www.cccb.ca/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/2025-12-04-Letter-to-PM-Religious-Freedom-EN.pdf
- French letter (PDF): https://www.cccb.ca/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/2025-12-04-Letter-to-PM-Religious-Freedom-FR.pdf
Share it widely through your parish networks, ministries, and social media.
Stay Informed—and Inform Others
Parishes, schools, lay leaders, and Catholic organizations are encouraged to help the faithful understand the potential implications of Bill C-9. Accurate information dispels confusion and strengthens our collective voice.
Stand with Other Faith Communities
Many religious traditions are united in their concern. Collaborate with other communities committed to safeguarding freedom of belief and expression.
Participate Peacefully and Constructively
Sign petitions, write letters, join community discussions, and engage respectfully in democratic processes. These peaceful actions remain vital in defending constitutional freedoms.
