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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 June 5, 2019

BPC Bulletin: Your Ward News Update

News Reports and Commentary Selected by Franklin Carter of the Book and Periodical Council’s Freedom of Expression Committee   In a Toronto courtroom, the sentencing of a convicted hatemonger has been postponed a second time. James Sears, the editor of Your Ward News, now faces sentencing in the Ontario Court of Justice on July 15, 2019. Mr. Sears has also fired his lawyer.
News June 3, 2019

BPC Bulletin: The Christchurch Call to Action and Canada's Digital Charter

News Reports and Commentary Selected by Franklin Carter of the Book and Periodical Council’s Freedom of Expression Committee   The Canadian government is taking new steps to counter hate speech, misinformation and other threats on the Internet. REPORTAGE Prime Minister Justin Trudeau recently announced the Canadian government’s intention to introduce a charter to combat hate speech, misinformation and electoral interference on the Internet.
News May 30, 2019

BPC Bulletin: Le Journal de Mourréal Loses Trademark Dispute

News Reports and Commentary Selected by Franklin Carter of the Book and Periodical Council’s Freedom of Expression Committee   In the Superior Court of Quebec, Le Journal de Mourréal — a satirical website — has lost a trademark dispute with Le Journal de Montréal.
News May 21, 2019

BPC Bulletin: Kevin J. Johnston Fined $2.5 Million

News Reports and Commentary Selected by Franklin Carter of the Book and Periodical Council’s Freedom of Expression Committee   In Ontario’s Superior Court of Justice, a judge has fined a videographer $2.5 million for making hateful, defamatory remarks about a Lebanese-Canadian restaurateur. On May 13, 2019, Justice Jane Ferguson ordered Kevin J. Johnston to pay the sum to Mohamad Fakih, the owner and founder of Paramount Fine Foods. REPORTAGE
News May 13, 2019

BPC Bulletin: Justin Brake Scores a Victory in Court

News Reports and Commentary Selected by Franklin Carter of the Book and Periodical Council’s Freedom of Expression Committee   In Newfoundland and Labrador, the Court of Appeal recently dismissed a civil charge of contempt against Justin Brake, a journalist. The Court of Appeal — which overturned a lower court ruling — delivered its verdict on March 28, 2019.