Quebec is once again pushing the boundaries of the debate over religion in the public square. The Legault government is introducing legislation to ban “street prayers” — a move that, depending on your view, is either overdue or overreach.

This isn’t an abstract issue. For months, Muslim Montrealers have gathered outside the Notre Dame Basilica in Old Montreal to take part in prayers. On the other side of the cobblestone streets, non-Muslims have begun gathering in protest, waving Quebec’s fleur-de-lis flag, arguing that faith belongs behind closed doors. Each time the gatherings grew larger, more confrontational, and more symbolic of a clash between identity and expression.

Some passersby admitted to feeling uneasy, interpreting the scene as a deliberate claiming of Catholic heritage by

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