I have always believed that Brampton is a model for diversity, inclusivity, and mutual respect. We celebrate our differences and work together to create a community where people of all backgrounds and faiths can live in harmony. This is why I’m proud to stand behind a new city bylaw that will help safeguard the religious freedoms that make Brampton—and Canada—so unique.
Brampton has long been a city that leans into the values of religious freedom. We were the first city to stand against Quebec’s Bill 21, advocating for the rights of individuals to express their faith without fear of discrimination. It’s part of who we are, and it’s why I believe that we must continue to protect these rights, especially in the face of recent incidents that have threatened the harmony we’ve worked so hard to build.
Over the past week, we’ve seen disturbing attempts to divide our community, fueled by a few individuals who have tried to stir up conflict. I firmly believe that these actions don’t represent the values of the vast majority of people in our Sikh, Hindu, and other religious communities. The truth is, 99.9% of people from all faiths just want to live peacefully, raise their children in a safe environment, and enjoy the freedom to practice their beliefs without fear of violence, intimidation, or harassment.
This is why I’m introducing a bylaw that aims to ensure that places of worship remain sacred and safe from protest-related disruptions. Inspired by similar legislation passed in Vaughan, this bylaw would restrict protests at places of worship. I believe that a place of worship should be a sanctuary—a space where people can pray, reflect, and find peace without the threat of agitation or violence.
This bylaw is not about restricting the right to protest—it is about ensuring that one protected right does not infringe upon another. We live in a country where the right to protest is enshrined in the Charter of Rights and Freedoms, but so is the freedom of religion. When protesters gather outside a place of worship, it creates an environment of tension and risk, and that’s something we simply cannot allow.
The right to protest remains intact—protests should not be allowed at places of worship. This is a reasonable, necessary measure to prevent violence and ensure that our religious communities feel safe and supported. I’m encouraged by the fact that cities like Mississauga and Ottawa are looking at similar measures, and I hope Brampton’s leadership will set a precedent for others to follow.
This bylaw does not extend to protests at schools or hospitals—those issues fall under provincial jurisdiction. We’re focusing specifically on protecting places of worship.
In Brampton, we celebrate diversity. We embrace people of all faiths, cultures, and backgrounds. And while disagreements or tensions may arise, it’s crucial that we respond with understanding, not division.
I look forward to ratifying this bylaw at the next council meeting. I’m grateful for the support of my fellow council members, who recognize the importance of protecting religious freedoms and fostering an environment where all Brampton residents feel safe and respected.
As we move forward, I encourage all members of our community to continue working together—whether you are Sikh, Hindu, Muslim, Christian, or follow any other faith—toward the common goal of peace, unity, and understanding. It is our collective commitment to these values that makes Brampton such a special place to live.
Thank you for your continued support, and for standing with us in this important initiative to protect religious freedom in our city.
