Law 9: Secularism provisions

Following the adoption of Law 9 (Loi sur le renforcement de la laïcité au Québec) by the Quebec National Assembly in the spring of 2026, Vanier College is subject to certain provisions regarding religious practices on campus.

These provisions apply to the entire Vanier community, including students, staff and members of the public present on campus property and/or receiving services from the College (including remotely).

Key impacts

Uncovered face requirement

  • Anyone receiving services from the College, whether on College property or online, must do so with an uncovered face.
    • Standard exceptions apply for medical or safety equipment (e.g., medical masks).
  • Wearing religious symbols remains permitted. 

Religious practices and Vanier's prayer room

  • Individual and group prayers are now prohibited on campus property. As a result, Vanier was required to close its prayer room.
    • Several places of worship are within walking distance of the campus and available to students and staff.
  • First Nations and Inuit cultural and spiritual practices are exempt from this provision.

Religious accommodations/absences

  • Religious accommodations will follow a new framework. While this procedure is being finalized, Vanier’s existing accommodation process remains in effect. More information to come.

College communications

  • Images depicting religious symbols, including people wearing religious symbols (although wearing religious symbols remains permitted), cannot be featured in the College’s promotional communications, including on its social media.

    • As a result, the range of student and staff images featured in marketing materials may be less diverse.

Compliance and implementation

The law comes into effect on September 1, 2026. 

When an individual or group of individuals is not compliant with the requirements, Vanier representatives will address the situation with care and discretion. While the College must uphold the law, its approach will be respectful and focused on supporting individuals in understanding and complying with the requirements, rather than on taking a punitive approach.

Questions or unique circumstances?

  • Students: Visit Student Services, C-201.
  • Faculty members: Contact your faculty dean.
  • Staff members: Contact your supervisor.