Library said allowing gender-critical talk could “test bounds of hate speech”

https://tnc.news/2023/10/25/london-library-joanna-williams-hate-speech/

Staff at an Ontario public library accused a prominent British author of leaning “far-right” and nearing “hate speech” in internal deliberations about whether to allow her to give a talk at a library venue.

The Society for Academic Freedom and Scholarship (SAFS), a Canada-based group dedicated to free speech and academic freedom, attempted to book a theatre at the London Public Library in London, Ont. for a talk by Joanna Williams, but was barred from doing so.

The library told the group the booking violated its policies on workplace and sexual harassment and would pose a risk of property damage or personal injury if allowed.

The library refused to explain how, even when event organizers pointed out that Williams’ events had never had such issues.

In internal emails, obtained by True North under freedom of information laws, it’s clear that library management took issue with Williams’ body of work. Continue…

Charges dismissed against Freedom Convoy protester who had bank accounts frozen

https://tnc.news/2023/10/25/charges-dismissed-convoy-protester/

An Ottawa judge has dismissed all charges against a Freedom Convoy protester whose bank accounts were frozen by the Liberal government.

According to a press release by the Justice Centre for Constitutional Freedoms (JCCF), Evan Blackman had Criminal Code mischief and obstruction of police charges dismissed by the court after police failed to remember key details about the arrest and provided scant evidence to substantiate the charges.

“My client and I are thrilled with this outcome,” said JCCF lawyer Chris Fleury.

“After almost 20 months, Mr. Blackman can finally put this matter behind him.” Continue…