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Decentralized Democracy

House Bill

Bill C-229

44th Parl. 1st Sess.
February 03, 2022
Banning Symbols of Hate Act
  • Bill C-229 is a proposed law that aims to amend the Criminal Code to ban symbols of hate in Canada. It would make it an offense to publicly display visual representations that promote or incite hatred or violence against a specific group of people. The bill recognizes the importance of preventing all forms of hatred or violence based on factors like race, religion, sexual orientation, and disability. It specifically targets symbols and emblems associated with groups like the Nazi swastika, the Ku Klux Klan, and the Confederate States of America. If passed, those found guilty of this offense could face imprisonment for up to two years. There are also defenses in place for those who displayed these symbols in good faith for educational purposes or for the purpose of removing them from public places to prevent hatred and violence.
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SteelmanSpren in Favour

  • Steelman argument in favor of Bill C-229: Bill C-229, also known as the Banning Symbols of Hate Act, aims to amend the Criminal Code to broaden the provisions relating to hate propaganda by making it an offence to publicly display visual representations that promote or incite hatred or violence against an identifiable group. This legislation is necessary in order to prevent all forms of hatred or violence against any group that is distinguished by color, race, religion, national or ethnic origin, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or mental or physical disability. It acknowledges the past atrocities and violence committed against such groups by persons or organizations whose symbols, emblems, flags, and uniforms continue to be used to promote or incite hatred and violence. By banning the public display of symbols or emblems such as the Nazi swastika and the Ku Klux Klan’s insignia, as well as flags and unif

SteelmanSpren Against

  • Steelman argument opposing this bill: "While it is important to prevent acts of hatred and violence against identifiable groups, this bill infringes on freedom of expression and may have unintended consequences. The broad language used in the bill, such as 'promote or incite hatred,' leaves room for interpretation and potential abuse. There is a risk that this legislation could be used to suppress dissenting opinions or stifle legitimate political discourse. Moreover, criminalizing the public display of symbols, flags, or emblems associated with hate groups may not effectively address the root causes of hate and violence. Rather than banning symbols, it would be more productive to focus on education, dialogue, and addressing systemic issues that contribute to hatred and discrimination. This bill also raises concerns about the slippery slope of limiting free expression, as it sets a precedent for government intervention in determining w
House First Reading
  • Feb. 3, 2022, 10 a.m.
  • In Progress
  • Read