With secularism sidelined in Quebec election campaign, here's where the parties stand

“Something that has to do with my personal freedoms, my rights and the rights of so many – it would be at the forefront,” Anvari said.

“I lost my teaching job only because I was wearing a hijab and the law didn’t allow that."

It’s the same story for Bouchera Chelbi, a Montreal teacher who under Bill 21 was allowed to keep her current job because of an acquired rights clause, but cannot move jobs or get a promotion.

“Because of this bill, I'm denied many advantages that anybody can have, at least anybody who's not wearing a religious symbol,” Chelbi said.

“This is not because I'm not competent enough. This is not because I'm not qualified enough. It is because of the way I choose to dress."

Quebec's major party leaders gear up for 3rd and final debate with election looming