SCC Backs Muslim Students’ Prayer Rights in Landmark Ruling

In a landmark decision, the Supreme Court of Canada (SCC) has put an end to a lengthy legal battle concerning religious discrimination at Webber Academy, a private Calgary school. The SCC’s ruling on Thursday marks the culmination of a 12-year struggle initiated by two Muslim students who were denied prayer space on the school campus.

The case dates back to December 1, 2011, when Sarmad Amir and Naman Siddique, both 14 years old at the time and practicing Sunni Muslims, enrolled at Webber Academy. Initially, the school accommodated their religious practices by providing empty classrooms and office spaces for prayer. However, this accommodation was abruptly terminated 17 days into their enrollment when the school’s president, Neil Webber, intervened, citing concerns about maintaining a secular environment.

Despite pleas from the students’ parents, Webber Academy stood firm on its decision, insisting that allowing prayer space would compromise its non-denominational status. The school even suggested that if the students wanted to pray on campus, they should do so without bowing or kneeling to avoid drawing attention.

Subsequently, the students’ parents filed complaints with the Alberta Human Rights Commission (HRC), leading to a ruling in their favor and a $26,000 fine against Webber Academy. Despite multiple appeals by the school, including attempts to raise new issues not previously considered, the HRC consistently upheld its decision, emphasizing that providing prayer space did not infringe upon the school’s non-denominational policy.

The Alberta Court of Appeal, in its 2023 decision, reaffirmed the rights of the students, stating that accommodating their religious practices did not constitute an endorsement of any particular religion by the school.

The SCC’s refusal to hear Webber Academy’s appeal signifies a significant victory for religious freedom and equality in Canada. It underscores the importance of accommodating diverse religious practices within educational institutions while upholding principles of non-discrimination and inclusivity.

Despite the legal battle’s conclusion, the case has sparked broader discussions about the balance between religious accommodation and secularism in educational settings. Moving forward, it serves as a precedent for ensuring that all students have the right to practice their faith without facing discrimination or prejudice.