Canadian Association for Free Expression

Box 332,

Rexdale, Ontario, M9W 5L3

Ph: 905-289-674-4455; FAX: 289-674-4820;

Website http://cafe.nfshost.com

Paul Fromm, B.Ed, M.A. Director

July 22, 2019

The Editor,

STONEY CREEK  NEWS,

Dear Sir:

Your editorial “What is the Greater Good?” (July 18, 2019) deals with the dilemma of what Council should do or can do to curb protests on public property.

Actually, there should be no dilemma. The right to protest or to present grievances to the monarch or ruler goes back to Magna Carta. As well, the Charter guarantees freedom of speech, freedom of association or assembly and freedom of religion. A variety of groups, some of whose views some citizens find offensive, have protested recently. That’s their absolute right. Council has busainess even to consider restrictions

Despite the views of some snowflakes, we enjoy no right not to be offended. Critics frequently denounce those they dislike with  terms  like” hate speech” and “hate groups” . These weaponized words are a lot of noise without substance. “Wilfully promoting hate” against certain groups is a criminal offence in Canada. It is narrowly construed. To my knowledge, none of the participants on various sides of these protests has ever been charged with or convicted of hate. The accusation of “hate” usually tells us more about the accuser’s emotions than the words criticized. “Hate speech”  means speech the accuser hates.

The city does have a legitimate role in ensuring that the protests are peaceful. Police should continue to observe these protests and, where rival factions show up, make certain that the two sides are kept apart — say on opposite sides of the street — so that both can exercize their right to wave their signs or flags and make their views known.

Council should go back to dealing with important issues like fixing our deplorable roads and leave free speech alone.

Sincerely yours,

Paul Fromm

Director