Canada's House Passes Hate Crime Bill in 186-137 Vote

Canada's House of Commons passed Bill C9, known as the Combatting Hate Act, on Wednesday evening in a 186-137 vote, advancing legislation aimed at strengthening protections against hate-motivated crimes while drawing criticism for removing safeguards for religious expression. The bill, supported by the Liberal Party and the Bloc Québécois, now moves to the Senate for further consideration.

The legislation expands Canada's Criminal Code to address rising incidents of antisemitism, Islamophobia, homophobia, and transphobia. It introduces new criminal offenses for intimidation and obstruction at places of worship, schools, community centers, and other sites used by identifiable groups, defined by factors such as race, religion, sexual orientation, or gender identity. Intimidation, which includes threats or acts intended to prevent access to these locations, carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison for serious cases or up to two years less a day for lesser offenses. Obstruction, such as blocking entrances or pathways, faces similar penalties. The bill also creates a hate crime offense that elevates penalties for federal crimes motivated by hatred based on protected...