Mr. Speaker, across Canada, freedom of expression and freedom of religion are under attack. Since 2021, more than 100 churches have been burned or vandalized.
True democracy cannot survive without free expression, and Canada cannot flourish if Christians or other religious groups live in fear because of their faith. I stand here not just as a member of Parliament for the good people of Haldimand—Norfolk, but as a lawyer and a Christian who believes that freedom of expression is sacred.
It is a cornerstone of our democracy and a freedom that protects not only what we agree with but the truth that challenges us, the convictions that make us uncomfortable and the unbreakable spirit that stands unwaveringly with those who refuse to be silent in the face of injustice.