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Freedom of Expression and the Public's Right to Know

Genuine democracy, advancement of knowledge, individual self-development, and social justice depend on a society in which freedom of expression and the right to know are a reality for everyone. The Centre for Free Expression works to advance these rights though public education, advocacy, law reform, research, advisory services, policy analysis, assistance to courts, and organizational collaborations.

The Latest

News September 10, 2017

CFE Director James Turk Is Interviewed by CBC’s Michael Enright on Free Speech in Universities

Controversies about free speech have become increasingly common in universities in Canada and the United States. In an interview with CBC’s Michael Enright, the Centre for Free Expression’s Director James Turk explores the difficult issues that are proving so divisive, suggesting that attempts to suppress speech undermines the work of the university and the possibilities for a vibrant democracy, while putting minorities and marginalized peoples at risk.
Academic Freedom
Blog September 8, 2017

Mein Trumpf: From the New Deal to The Art of the Deal, and On to the Abyss?

In the final days of 2016, the small island nation of Cuba mourned the passing of a political giant. Meanwhile, next door, superpower America nervously welcomed as the latest occupant of its highest office a gigantic bigot. To be sure, Fidel Castro’s passing was not mourned but celebrated in Little Havana in Miami, while Trump’s victory over Hillary Clinton was lamented by most of the Americans who voted in their federal election.
Len Findlay
Censorship, Disinformation, Access-to-Information
Blog September 1, 2017

When Progressives Start Abandoning Free Speech

In the wake of attacks in Charlottesville, Virginia there were a number of rallies in Canadian cities.  The anti-racist counter-demonstrators hugely outnumbered their rally opponents, constituting phenomenal public solidarity against racism.  There was much to be cheered in these events. One thing dampened this amazing response.  It was how, for some, denouncing hate slid into denouncing speech rights and into dangerous calls for governments to prevent rallies.
Micheal Vonn
Censorship