Canada’s fresh hate crime bill already used to intimidate critics before it takes effect

Canada passed Bill C-9 (Combatting Hate Act) on June 18, 2026. It received royal assent and comes into force July 18.

The law adds new Criminal Code offences: intimidating or obstructing people from accessing places of worship, schools, community centres, and other identifiable group spaces. It creates a standalone hate crime offence and bans certain hate symbols (like swastikas and symbols of listed terrorist groups).

Civil liberties groups (over 60 organizations) strongly criticized the bill. They say it is vague, could have a chilling effect on free speech, peaceful protest, and religious expression.

While the law is not yet active, people are already referencing it to intimidate or silence opposing opinions.

And so it begins…

Canada’s new “hate crime” legislation has only just been passed, and already it is being used as a cudgel to threaten people and suppress the expression of views which are not government approved. pic.twitter.com/yeOcQJ8m0W

— THEWATCHTOWERS (@THEWATCHTOWERS) June 23, 2026