THE Ontario Legislature on Thursday passed a motion from Michael Coteau, Liberal MPP for Don Valley East, affirming the province’s support of religious diversity in response to Quebec’s Bill 21.

“I am pleased that all parties could come together to affirm that Ontario is a place that values diversity and stands united in support of our rights and freedoms,” said Coteau.

Coteau’s motion stated, “Ontario and its government shall oppose any law that would seek to restrict or limit the religious freedoms of our citizens; and, that Ontario’s Legislature should affirm that we value our diversity and assert that we shall promote and protect free expression and the rights of religious minorities, consistent with the Charter of Rights and Freedoms.”

“As the former Minister Responsible for Anti-Racism, I believe a critical duty of the Members of our Legislature is to recognize, embrace, promote and protect the rights of all Ontarians guaranteed under Canada’s Charter of Rights and Freedoms, and I am very gratified that occurred today,” said Coteau.

“Since the spring, I have spoken out about Bill 21, and today we were able to show, with solidarity and strength, a clear message to Ontarians, and to all Canadians, that this province celebrates and stands together with all our people in support of our diversity, and in defence of our rights and freedoms,” Coteau said.