A Quebec-based religion, Gratitude Sanctuary, has filed an application in Federal Court claiming that Health Canada is delaying a decision on whether to allow members to use magic mushrooms in their religious ceremonies. The group, led by “Reverend Superior” Alain Menier, believes that consuming magic mushrooms is necessary for their religious practices, as they believe it opens a sacred space for receiving teachings. Menier first requested an exemption from the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act in January 2022 and has not received a response from Health Canada despite answering two questionnaires totaling 41 questions.
The application filed by Gratitude Sanctuary claims that the group cannot conduct their religious ceremonies without the exemption and that their religious freedom rights are being infringed by the delay in decision. They are seeking a judge to compel the Minister of Mental Health and Addictions to either grant or refuse their request for an exemption. The group argues that no harm will result from the Minister continuing to process the exemption request, as it will either result in the approval of their request or notification of any additional information needed or intent to refuse the request.
Health Canada has indicated that they are looking into questions about religious exemptions from the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act, but did not provide further information. Gratitude Sanctuary states that their ceremonies must be done safely and legally, and that the consumption of psilocybin mushrooms is essential for their religious practices. They are concerned about the lack of response from Health Canada and the impact it is having on their ability to practice their religion in the way they believe is necessary.
The group emphasizes the importance of conducting their ceremonies safely and legally, and believes that their religious freedom rights are being violated by the delay in decision from Health Canada. They argue that the Minister should either grant the exemption request to allow them to practice their religion, or provide clear guidance on any additional information needed or the intent to refuse the request. The lawyer for Gratitude Sanctuary did not immediately respond to requests for comment on the situation.
As the situation unfolds, Gratitude Sanctuary continues to advocate for their religious freedom rights and the ability to use magic mushrooms in their ceremonies. They are seeking a resolution from the Minister of Mental Health and Addictions to either grant or refuse their request for an exemption from the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act. The delay in decision from Health Canada has prompted the group to take legal action in an effort to ensure that they can practice their religion as they see fit.
