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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.

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Blog December 19, 2022

Strong Mayor, Weak Democracy

Much criticism has been aimed at Toronto mayor John Tory and Ontario premier Doug Ford over the unprecedented powers given to Tory and to all future mayors of Toronto by the provincial legislature. Since Toronto has in recent years had such mayoral luminaries as ‘don’t want to be boiled in a pot by cannibals’ Mel Lastman as well as crack-using Rob Ford, one can only wonder what ‘evidence’ was gathered to support giving Toronto mayors additional powers.
Mariana Valverde
Freedom of Expression & Its Limits
BPC Bulletin December 9, 2022

BPC Bulletin: A Parent Takes Part in a Library Audit at His Child's School

In Toronto, the principal of a public elementary school recently invited parents to participate in a “library audit.” Parents were given a copy of the Toronto District School Board’s Equity Toolkit, and they were told to evaluate library books according to a checklist. Ira Wells, an assistant professor of literature at the University of Toronto, took part in the audit.
Intellectual Freedom, Censorship
BPC Bulletin December 9, 2022

BPC Bulletin: A New History of the Index of Prohibited Books

A new history of Roman Catholic censorship is on the market. The Index of Prohibited Books: Four Centuries of Struggle over Word and Image for the Greater Glory of God appeared this year. Robin Vose, the book’s author, teaches at St. Thomas University in Fredericton, New Brunswick. St. Thomas University provides a news story:
Censorship
News December 8, 2022

David Hutton wins TI Canada’s Canadian Integrity Award

Transparency International Canada has selected David Hutton to receive its Canadian Integrity Award in recognition of his work supporting whistleblowers and advocating for stronger whistleblower protection in Canada. Mr. Hutton is a Senior Fellow at the Centre for Free Expression at Toronto Metropolitan University and is a member of the CFE Whistleblowing Initiatives Steering Committee.
Whistleblower Protection