e-1354 (Human rights)

Petition to the House of Commons

• Freedom of religion is a constitutionally protected right in Canada, a fact that reflects the value our nation places on diversity and inclusion;
• The Government of Canada, at all levels, should demonstrate respect for Canadians, regardless of their religion/faith;
• Belief in a divine creator(s) is a foundational doctrine of many faith groups found in our nation, including the Abrahamic religions of Islam, Judaism, and Christianity;
• The Governor General of Canada, on November 1, 2017, in her official capacity made the following statement: “And we are still debating and still questioning whether life was a divine intervention or whether it was coming out of a natural process let alone, oh my goodness, a random process.”;
• A reasonable analysis of the semantics of this statement reveal a derogatory, even derisive, tone;
• As a public figure, the Governor General serves as a role model to Canadians;
• Statements such as the aforementioned, made by a public figure such as the Governor General, can contribute to a toxic environment for Canadians who do believe in a divine creator; and
• The House of Commons is composed of Members elected to represent their constituents, many of whom believe in a divine creator;