Calgary (Rajeev Sharma): New legislative measures introduced by the Canadian Parliament have sparked concern among Hindu, Buddhist, and Jain communities, as they risk criminalizing the Swastika, a sacred symbol integral to religious homes, temples, and festivals.
The Coalition of Hindus of North America (COHNA) has issued an urgent call to action, urging lawmakers to protect the sacred Swastika while combating hate.
Community leaders emphasize that while combating hate is essential, the measures wrongly conflate the sacred Swastika with Hitler’s Hakenkreuz (“hooked cross”), a symbol of Nazi ideology. “There is no ‘Nazi swastika,’” said Hindu community representatives. “The Swastika is a sacred emblem of peace and prosperity, whereas the Hakenkreuz represents hate and oppression.”
Advocates are urging both lawmakers and the public to recognize this critical distinction to ensure religious freedom and preserve cultural heritage, while continuing efforts to fight hate in all forms.
