The PQ’s charter of values is continuing to provoke strong reactions from Quebecers on either side of the debate. Since Bill 60 was tabled on Nov. 7, politicians and protesters have continued to adamantly voice their views on the government’s proposed list of values.
On Nov. 10, about 40 demonstrators took to Montreal’s downtown streets to show their support in favour of the tabled legislation.
“I don't like religion, and for me all religions are the same,” explained one pro-charter demonstrator. “We got rid of the Catholic Church in Quebec, but we have to make it official -- that's why I’m for this charter.”
Another demonstrator explained that she believes wearing a head covering is a means of demonstrating personal refusal to integrate into Quebec society.
But, as the demonstration unfolded, some onlookers voiced their frustration with the tabled legislation.
“I think it's awful,” said a passerby as he watched the pro-charter demonstration unfold. “My wife is a Muslim, she's from here, and she's Quebecois.
“It's awful that she can't work in the public sector. She wants to be a teacher, but she can't do it because of this.”
PLQ leader Philippe Couillard stood behind those on the sidewalks rather than those on the streets on Nov. 10 – when speaking to a crowd in the South Shore, he stood emotionally against the charter.
“Look at the poppy that many of us are wearing,” he said. “Our rights and freedoms didn’t come for free, when our soldiers fought the Nazis and gave their lives for our freedom; no one asked them what god they believed in.”
Couillard continued to add that he didn’t want the children of Quebec to be judged by what was on their heads, but rather what was in their heads and their hearts.
But, despite Couillard’s adamant opposition, members of the PQ are still standing strongly behind its charter.
Bernard Drainville, the PQ’s cabinet minister responsible for tabling the legislation, has said that people who have voted Liberal their entire lives have voiced disappointment with Couillard’s position on his party’s proposed values.