OTTAWA - The Liberal government has proposed new legislation aimed at addressing hate crimes. The bill introduces four new criminal offenses related to hate. Justice Minister Sean Fraser announced that the legislation will create offenses for obstruction and intimidation, specifically to protect religious institutions.

Fraser stated that the bill will criminalize the willful promotion of hate through the use of hate symbols. This includes two Nazi symbols: the swastika and the SS bolt, as well as symbols associated with designated terrorist organizations.

Additionally, the proposed legislation will establish a new category of hate crime. This category will be layered on top of existing offenses and will apply in cases where the crime is motivated by hatred towards the victim.

Fraser discussed the details of the bill during a press conference held prior to the release of the bill's text to the media. The introduction of this legislation reflects the government's commitment to combat hate and protect vulnerable communities.