Understanding Bill C-9: Implications and Concerns

Bill C-9 is presented as a law to combat hate in Canada. But its scope goes further.

This is Bill C-9 explained. Bill C-9 removes the requirement for Attorney General

approval before hate-propaganda prosecutions. That approval was a key safeguard.

The bill creates a new “hate symbol” offence. Displaying certain symbols could be

interpreted as willfully promoting hatred. It also establishes a new stand-alone hate crime category.

For serious offences, penalties can reach life imprisonment. New intimidation and obstruction

offences are added. Provoking fear or interfering with access to religious or community spaces

can carry penalties up to ten years. Why does this matter? Bill C-9 expands police powers while