Law Would Make It Illegal to Promote Hate Against Indigenous People
Hate Speech Law for Indigenous Peoples
This proposed law wants to update the Criminal Code. It aims to make it against the law to publicly encourage hatred towards Indigenous peoples in Canada. Right now, the law already prohibits promoting hatred against other groups based on things like race, religion, or sexual orientation. This proposed law would add Indigenous identity to that list. This change would affect anyone who speaks publicly. This includes people online, in the media, or at public events. It means they could face legal consequences if they promote hatred against Indigenous people. It matters because it aims to protect Indigenous people from hate speech. Supporters believe it will help reduce discrimination and create a more inclusive society.
I introduced a bill to change the Criminal Code to stop hate against Indigenous people and end denial of what happened at residential schools. I want to protect survivors and make sure the truth about residential schools is never forgotten.
Where this proposed law falls on the policy spectrums that Canadians care about
The bill specifically addresses hate speech against Indigenous people, indicating a move towards recognizing and protecting their rights, pushing it towards greater self-determination.
By including Indigenous people in hate speech protections, the bill expands the scope of protected groups, aligning with proactive equity and inclusion measures.
Adding a group to hate speech laws means that there will be more prosecutions for hate speech, moving towards a 'tough on crime' approach.
This proposed law aims to protect Indigenous peoples by making it illegal to promote hatred against them through denying or justifying the residential school system. However, it may be difficult to enforce and could potentially limit free speech on important public issues.
Things to Watch For
- It is unclear how 'downplaying' the residential school system will be defined and proven in court.
- The law depends on the Attorney General's consent to prosecute, which could lead to inconsistent enforcement.
- The impact on historical discussions and academic freedom needs to be carefully watched.
- The law's interaction with existing hate speech laws and freedom of expression protections is unclear.
- The definition of 'Indigenous peoples' relies on another act, making this law dependent on that act's definition.
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How likely this proposed law is to be approved
Private member's bills rarely pass, especially if they are low on the list to be considered. Also, changes to hate speech laws can be controversial, making approval less likely.
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