Statement from Kevin Falcon regarding denial of Sikh access to the Quebec Legislature
Wednesday, January 19, 2011
VICTORIA, BC - Kevin Falcon, candidate for the leadership of the BC Liberal Party,
made the following statement today regarding news that World Sikh Organization of
Canada members were turned away by Quebec National Assembly security Tuesday
because they were wearing ceremonial kirpans:
“No one should be denied access to a democratic institution because of their religious
beliefs. Freedom of conscience and religion are important rights set out in the Canadian
Charter of Rights and Freedoms, and must be upheld.
“Having been actively engaged with the Sikh community for 20 years, I am proud of the
fact that the overwhelming majority of the Sikh community are peaceful and law-abiding,
and are passionately dedicated to Canadian values like democracy and religion."
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Media contact:
Trevor Pancoust
MEDIA RELEASE
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