For the first time, the question of removing the crucifix from the council room of city hall will be studied in Quebec.
This question was submitted by a citizen at the very end of the municipal council meeting on Tuesday. The citizen, David Gauthier, recalled the Law on State Secularism passed by the National Assembly and the removal of the crucifix from the Salon bleu.
He asked: “Why does the City keep its own in the council chambers? Couldn’t it be moved to a neutral location so as not to give the impression that the City has a bias towards Catholicism?”
Councilor David Weiser, member of the executive responsible for living together, responded to the citizen’s question, emphasizing that there is a “thin line” between what can be perceived as religious and historical.
Deep reflection
“That being said, the question is excellent. I propose to bring it, since it deserves in-depth reflection, to the next meeting of the Advisory Commission for an inclusive city.
This commission was established under the mandate of Mayor Bruno Marchand, on May 16, 2022. Its mandate is to formulate recommendations on municipal orientations in terms of living together, among other things.
During the last electoral campaign, four of the five aspiring mayors, including Mr. Marchand, affirmed that the object still had its place. Only Jackie Smith, now Limoilou councilor, had wanted his withdrawal.
The previous mayor, Régis Labeaume, refused to remove it, saying he was “resistance” for the preservation of a heritage symbol.
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