Quebec’s Bill 94 Sparks Job Losses and Concerns Over Secularism

A recent law in Quebec, Bill 94, extending the province’s ban on religious symbols in schools, is leading to job losses and raising concerns about religious freedom and the capacity of the education system. The law, passed in October 2025, now applies to all school staff, not just teachers and principals.

Job Losses Mount in Montreal Schools

Dozens of Montreal school staff have already been fired or have resigned due to the expanded ban, with hundreds more potentially facing job losses, according to the Montreal Association of School Principals . In the Mille-Îles region, 12 school support workers lost their jobs in February 2026 after refusing to remove religious symbols, specifically the hijab . Four employees resigned after being asked to remove their religious symbols, while the remaining eight were terminated.

Impact on School Support Staff and Volunteers

The law extends beyond teachers to include school support staff and parent volunteers. Nevien Waly, a specialized educator who volunteered at her children’s school for a decade, is now prohibited from entering the school due to her hijab . The situation is causing concern among unions, who fear the law will exacerbate existing staffing shortages.

Concerns Over Implementation and Clarification

School service centers across Quebec are awaiting clarification from the Ministry of Education on several aspects of the law’s implementation. Specifically, questions remain regarding the rights of employees who change positions within the school system . The Fédération des CSS du Québec is seeking a “common understanding” of the law before fully implementing it.

Government Response

The office of the Minister of Education, Sonia LeBel, stated that the law was adopted democratically and that it is now the responsibility of the school service centers to apply it .

Potential for Widespread Disruption

The Montreal Association of School Directors estimates that at least 500 jobs in Montreal alone could be threatened by Bill 94. In Laval, around forty employees have refused to remove their religious symbols and are currently on unpaid leave . Union leaders warn of potential disruptions to services for students, including those with disabilities.

A daycare educator is also set to lose her job for refusing to remove her hijab, further illustrating the law’s broad reach .