Hindu Canadians Celebrate Landmark Victory in Parliament: Swastika Removed from Bill C-9 as a reference to Hate Symbol

Hindu Canadian Foundation (HCF) is proud to celebrate a significant and meaningful victory in the Canadian Parliament. Members of Parliament, with unanimous support across party lines, have amended Bill C-9 to remove the sacred "Swastika" from the legislation's list of prohibited hate symbols. The word "Nazi" has now been dissociated from Swastika, and references will be made to "Nazi Hakenkreuz" instead. This moment signifies not only a triumph for Hindu Canadians but also a testament to the power of democracy, dialogue, and collective advocacy.

For generations, the swastika has been revered in Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and other Dharmic traditions as a symbol of auspiciousness, peace, and well‑being. Yet, in the modern era, its sacred meaning has often been misunderstood, conflated with the Nazi “Hakenkreuz,” and unfairly stigmatized. The amendment to Bill C‑9 corrects this historical error, ensuring that Canada’s laws reflect both the fight against hate and the protection of cultural heritage.

This achievement was not won overnight. It is the result of tireless efforts by the Hindu Canadian Foundation, allied organizations, community leaders, and everyday citizens who stood together to defend dignity and truth.

From the moment Bill C‑9 was introduced, HCF recognized the urgent need to act. The inclusion of the swastika among prohibited hate symbols threatened to erase centuries of sacred tradition and stigmatize millions of Canadians who hold the symbol dear.

• Petitions and outreach: Thousands of individuals signed HCF petition, wrote letters, and contacted their representatives to explain the difference between the swastika and the Nazi Hakenkreuz.

• Community education: HCF organized Events, cultural sessions, and Products to educate Canadians about the true meaning of the swastika.

• Coalition building: Over 100 allied organizations endorsed HCF’s submission to Parliament, demonstrating the strength of collective action.

HCF Delivered Compelling and Influential Testimony to the Justice Committee:

HCF President, Arunesh Giri, submitted powerful testimony to the Justice Committee, highlighting the historical, cultural, and spiritual significance of the swastika. The testimony emphasised that banning the symbol would not combat hate but instead perpetuate misunderstanding and marginalisation.

https://www.ourcommons.ca/documentviewer/en/45-1/JUST/meeting-12/notice

HCF President Arunesh Giri stood before the Justice Committee to present testimony, marking a powerful moment in the advocacy journey.

The committee heard from scholars, community leaders, and everyday citizens who spoke with clarity and conviction. Their voices carried the weight of generations, reminding Parliament that laws must be precise, just, and culturally sensitive.

One of the most inspiring aspects of this victory is the spirit of cooperation that made it possible.

• Liberal Party leadership: Liberal Party Members of Parliament played a pivotal role in advancing the amendment to remove the swastika from Bill C‑9. Their openness to dialogue, careful consideration of community concerns, and decisive action exemplify true leadership.

• Conservative Party and Bloc Québécois support:  These parties joined in recognising the importance of correcting the legislation. Their unanimous support reflects a shared commitment to justice.

• Unanimous vote: In an era often marked by division, this amendment passed with unity. It is a shining example of Canada at its best, where leaders rise above partisanship to protect minority voices and correct historical errors.

This victory was not achieved by Hindu Canadians alone. It was strengthened by the solidarity of other communities who recognised the importance of justice and dignity.

• Jewish organisations: The Centre for Israel and Jewish Affairs (CIJA) and B’nai Brith Canada stood side by side with Hindu Canadians. Their support underscored the shared commitment to fighting hate while respecting heritage.

• Interfaith cooperation: Leaders from diverse backgrounds joined in affirming that Canada can combat hatred without erasing sacred symbols.

• Academics and researchers: Scholars provided historical clarity, distinguishing between the swastika and the Nazi “Hakenkreuz.” Their expertise ensured that Parliament acted with knowledge and precision.

Why This Victory Matters to Every Canadian:

Protecting Heritage: For Hindu Canadians, the swastika is not merely a symbol; it is a living tradition. It adorns temples, homes, and sacred ceremonies. It represents prosperity, auspiciousness, and the eternal cycle of life. To stigmatise it would be to stigmatise the community itself.

Fighting Hate Effectively: Removing the swastika from the list of prohibited hate symbols, strengthens Canada’s fight against hate by ensuring that laws target actual instruments of hatred rather than misidentified cultural symbols.

Affirming Democracy: This victory proves that democracy thrives when voices unite. From grassroots petitions to parliamentary debates, every step of the process reflected the power of collective action. Citizens spoke, leaders listened, and justice prevailed.

HCF extends heartfelt thanks to:

• Members of Parliament across all parties who supported the amendment.

• Allied organisations: over 100+ organisations that endorsed HCF’s submission.

• Community leaders and everyday citizens who signed petitions, wrote letters, and raised awareness.

• Jewish organisations, including CIJA and B’nai Brith Canada, for their solidarity.

This amendment is more than a legislative change; it is a beacon of justice. It sends a clear message: Canada can fight hate without erasing heritage. It affirms that voices matter, that cultural dignity must be protected, and that democracy is strengthened when communities stand together.

For Hindu Canadians, this moment will be remembered as a turning point. It restores the swastika to its rightful place as a sacred symbol and ensures that future generations can celebrate their heritage without fear of stigma.

Looking Ahead - Path Forward:

The victory on Bill C‑9 is not the end of the journey. It is the beginning of a renewed commitment to advocacy, education, and unity.

• HCF will continue to educate Canadians about the swastika’s sacred meaning. Misunderstandings persist, and it is essential to ensure that schools, media, and public institutions present accurate information.

• This victory demonstrated the power of interfaith and intercultural cooperation. HCF will build on these relationships, fostering dialogue and solidarity across communities.

• Whenever cultural symbols are misunderstood or misrepresented, HCF will stand ready to defend dignity. This victory sets a precedent for how Canada can balance the fight against hate with respect for heritage.

The unanimous amendment to Bill C‑9 is a landmark victory for Hindu Canadians and for all communities committed to justice and dignity. It reflects the best of Canada, where leaders listen, communities unite, and democracy thrives.

The Hindu Canadian Foundation celebrates this amendment as a beacon of justice, a triumph of truth, and a testament to the power of collective action.

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