Members of the Parti Quebecois are taking a stand against King Charles following his succession.
The monarchy is a controversial subject for many people around the globe. Especially for those who live under the monarchy. And some people in Quebec have said enough.
Some of the deputies of the Parti Quebecois have chosen to not take an oath of allegiance to King Charles. In this move of defiance, the Quebec Premier, François Legault has called in his government to introduce legislation that would make the oath taking optional.
Queen’s Death Sets Things In Motion
The death of the Queen in September set up this questioning of the monarchy by the people of Quebec. For many in Quebec, the monarchy is no more than a relic from the past.
The death of the Queen has prompted debate between Canadians and Quebecois about whether having a monarchy is truly necessary. Indeed, on 13 September, a Leger poll of North America found that 87% of Quebecers had no personal attachment to the royal family.
Some have called the monarchy outdated. And this is not the first time there has been discontent in Quebec about the royal family’s role in Canada and the commonwealth worldwide.
Elected Officials Refuse To Swear Allegiance
The members of Quebec’s National Assembly must take an oath of allegiance to the monarch in order to take a seat in the provincial parliament.
However, some of the newly elected members of the Parti Quebecois (among others) did not take this oath of allegiance to the King. Instead they swore that they would govern for all the people of Quebec.
Because of this they have yet to take their seat in the province’s assembly. There are many Quebecois who are feeling discontent with the monarchy.
Tensions In Quebec
Tensions in the French speaking province of Canada have always been on a high. Especially surrounding secession and the royal family. The Parti Quebecois have been making waves in Quebec.
In 1980 and 1995 they were behind the votes for the province’s separation; both of which failed. There are clearly thoughts and ideas about the abolition of the monarchy in Canada but the road will be long.
While there is plenty still to do, there are still thoughts that this early defiance will engage a domino effect beyond Quebec about thoughts of separation from the monarchy.
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