The Conservative Party Stands Behind Religious Freedom of Sikhs

StarBuzz Weekly, Toronto-The Minister of Citizenship, Immigration and Multiculturalism, Honourable Jason Kenney provided the Conservative Government’s denouncement of the recent decision by the Bloc Quebecois to refuse Sikh’s to carry the Kirpan within the Quebec National Assembly.
           
 The Conservative Party has openly accepted the Five K’s of Sikhism and the religious beliefs that are deeply embodied within them. This has been a long ago settled issue, evidenced by the Supreme Court of Canada’s ruling on the right for Sikhs to carry the Kirpan in certain public institutions. The Conservative Party unanimously supported this decision, including several other motions to allow Sikhs to freely practice their religion without being targeted.

“This is a non-issue,” said Parm Gill, Conservative MP candidate for Brampton-Springdale, “I firmly stand behind the right of Canadians to freely practice their religion and I fully support the Five K’s practiced by Canadians of Sikh faith”.

 The Bloc Quebecois’ irrational decision is an attempt to marginalize a community based on religious beliefs and will not be tolerated in our free and just society. The Conservative Party has always believed in a nation that is based on tolerance and freedom. We hold a collective belief that the Kirpan is a religious symbol that represents a deep connection with Sikhism. The decision by the Bloc Quebecois to abuse minority communities in an attempt to divide our country has insulted our beliefs and ideals that comprise our multiculturalism. Sadly, this decision is a purposeful attempt to break up the cultural harmony within Canada that has long been idealized. The Conservative Party embodies a strong belief that Canadians should not be denied to practice their religion or serve in Parliament because of their religious tenants.

“The Canadian and Brampton Sikh community should not be targeted and marginalized because of their religious beliefs and practices – this issue has been selfishly used to play political games. As a Sikh myself, I am unyielding in my support for religious freedom and expression - something that should never be denied or restricted”, said Parm Gill.


For more information contact:

Tyler Orchard
tyler@parmgill.ca
Director of Communications
Parm Gill Campaign