A proposed law to fight bullying has become a divisive issue in a southeastern Manitoba community.
The province has proposed legislation aimed at ensuring students can create gay-straight clubs in their schools if they want.
One pastor has been criticizing the province’s proposed law.
During a sermon last month, Pastor Ray Duerksen from Southland Church in Steinbach spoke about the province’s Bill 18.
“We are alarmed by the impact this bill will have on religious freedom within public schools as well,” said Duerksen.
“We have to fight against Bill 18,” said Duerksen.
He also sounded a cautionary note to community leaders and elected officials if they don’t use their influence.
“God did not place you in your position because you are the only person who can do your job that well,” said Duerksen.
It appears some officials are listening.
The city’s council has drafted a resolution calling on the province to review the proposed law.
“We have a wide range of views in our community and right now we're compiling those and bringing them to the minister," said Mayor Chris Goertzen.
Evan Wiens said he’s upset to hear that.
The Steinbach teenager has been promoting a gay-straight alliance club at his high school.
“It makes me feel like they don’t want certain school groups formed at schools,” said Wiens.
The church provided CTV News with a statement which says that Bill 18 does not protect religious beliefs and suggests there is the possibility a child could be accused of bullying for expressing their religious beliefs.
Pastor Duerksen is out of the province and his church said he is willing to answer questions when he gets back.
Manitoba’s opposition leader also spoke out against Bill 18 Thursday.
Manitoba Education Minister Nancy Allan, meanwhile, said the definition of bullying provided in the bill will stand.
“We are confident, at the end of the day, this law will provide safer and caring learning environments,” said Allan.
The province's bill is expected to pass in the spring.
In Winnipeg, a United Church on River Avenue had a message posted about the bill.
“What would Jesus do about Bill 18? Protect all vulnerable students,” states the sign.
