The scope of religious freedom is an increasingly sensitive
topic in today's political (and secular) climate. From
Quebec's most recent "religious neutrality" law that
prevents public servants from wearing religious symbols in the
course of their employment, to the Supreme Court's decision in
Trinity Western, issues surrounding freedom of religion are at the
forefront of lawmakers' minds. Religious rights become even
more contentious as they permeate the boundaries of largely secular
organizations, such as post-secondary institutions.
Universities and colleges owe a duty to accommodate students and
employees possessing characteristics that are protected under human
rights legislation, which includes religious beliefs. How this duty
to accommodate is realized (or challenged) and the extent to which
it protects diverse religious beliefs and practices varies by
policy but is always subject to the principles of undue
hardship.
