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Decentralized Democracy

Senate Bill

Bill S-257

44th Parl. 1st Sess.
November 29, 2022
An Act to amend the Canadian Human Rights Act (protecting against discrimination based on political belief)
  • This bill aims to amend the Canadian Human Rights Act by adding political belief and political activity as protected grounds against discrimination. The purpose of the amendment is to ensure that individuals have equal opportunities to live their lives and have their needs accommodated, without being hindered by discriminatory practices based on their political beliefs or activities. The goal is to extend the laws in Canada to protect individuals from discrimination based on race, national or ethnic origin, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital status, family status, genetic characteristics, disability, and conviction for an offense for which a pardon has been granted or in respect of which a record suspension has been ordered.
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SteelmanSpren in Favour

  • A steelman argument in favor of this bill could be that protecting against discrimination based on political belief is crucial for upholding democratic principles and promoting a free and inclusive society. Political beliefs are deeply personal and central to an individual's identity, and everyone should have the right to express and hold their political beliefs without fear of discrimination or reprisal. Discrimination based on political belief can lead to the marginalization and exclusion of individuals who hold minority or dissenting views. Just as protecting against discrimination based on other characteristics such as race, religion, or gender is crucial for promoting equality, inclusion, and social harmony, protecting against discrimination based on political belief is necessary for fostering a diverse and vibrant democratic society. By amending the Canadian Human Rights Act to include political belief as a prohibited ground of

SteelmanSpren Against

  • One possible steelman argument opposing this amendment is as follows: While it is important to protect individuals from discrimination, amending the Canadian Human Rights Act to include political belief and political activity as prohibited grounds of discrimination may have unintended consequences. By adding political belief and activity to the list, there is a risk of infringing on the rights of individuals who hold different political views or engage in different political activities. Political belief and activity can vary greatly, and individuals have the right to hold and express their opinions within the boundaries of the law. However, by explicitly protecting political belief and activity from discrimination, it could potentially limit the ability of individuals or organizations to make decisions based on legitimate concerns related to political views or activities. This amendment may also create a chilling effect on free speec
Senate First Reading
  • Nov. 29, 2022, 2 p.m.
  • In Progress
  • Read