This month, Canadian courts are set to hear several significant cases involving the issue of religious freedom, each with the potential for far-reaching consequences. At the same time, Bill C-9 is advancing through Parliament, where its final form could substantially affect the future of freedom of speech and religion in Canada.
Christian Heritage Party vs. City of Hamilton
On Feb. 3, 2026, the Christian Heritage Party (CHP) is scheduled to appear before the Ontario Court of Appeal. The case stems from a 2024 decision that upheld the City of Hamilton’s right to remove a political advertisement from its transit system.The advertisement in question was brief. It contained the words “Woman: An Adult Female,” along with the party’s logo and website. The City of Hamilton removed the ad shortly after it was posted, citing its “open and inclusive city” policy. City officials argued that the message could be seen as harmful or offensive to the transgender community and that it violated the city’s standard for a safe environment on public transit.
