The National Association of Japanese Canadians (NAJC) is concerned about the proposed “Charter of Quebec Values” and in particular the measures to prohibit public servants from wearing conspicuous religious symbols.
Ken Noma, President of the NAJC stated that “We support the Quebec Government’s goal to defend equity between men and women and to encourage equity and harmonious relations among all peoples but we do not believe that the proposed ‘Charter of Quebec Values’ is the means to accomplish these goals.”
The NAJC sees this proposed Charter as a violation of human rights, which guarantees the rights to freedom of expression, freedom of religion and freedom to manifest one’s religion. We must remain open to the diversity of cultural and religious expression if we are to remain an open and welcoming Canada.
The National Association of Japanese Canadians celebrated the 25th anniversary of the Japanese Canadian Redress Settlement on September 22nd and with the acceptance of this agreement, our community made a tacit agreement to be vigilant in our commitment to the civil and human rights for all Canadians.
Contact:
Ken Noma, President
National Association of Japanese Canadians
national@najc.ca 204.943.2910
