Dayhoff Westminster Soundtrack: Canadian University threatens Coulter with criminal charges – before she even says a word at her speaking engagement.

Monday, March 22, 2010

Canadian University threatens Coulter with criminal charges – before she even says a word at her speaking engagement.

University of Ottawa's letter to Ann Coulter

Published: National Post Monday, March 22, 2010

Please be sure to read the comments. They are precious. No kidding.
http://www.nationalpost.com/news/story.html?id=2710037

Dear Ms. Coulter,

I understand that you have been invited by University of Ottawa Campus Conservatives to speak at the University of Ottawa this coming Tuesday. We are, of course, always delighted to welcome speakers on our campus and hope that they will contribute positively to the meaningful exchange of ideas that is the hallmark of a great university campus. We have a great respect for freedom of expression in Canada, as well as on our campus, and view it as a fundamental freedom, as recognized by our Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms.

I would, however, like to inform you, or perhaps remind you, that our domestic laws, both provincial and federal, delineate freedom of expression (or "free speech") in a manner that is somewhat different than the approach taken in the United States. I therefore encourage you to educate yourself, if need be, as to what is acceptable in Canada and to do so before your planned visit here.

You will realize that Canadian law puts reasonable limits on the freedom of expression. For example, promoting hatred against any identifiable group would not only be considered inappropriate, but could in fact lead to criminal charges. Outside of the criminal realm, Canadian defamation laws also limit freedom of expression and may differ somewhat from those to which you are accustomed. I therefore ask you, while you are a guest on our campus, to weigh your words with respect and civility in mind.

There is a strong tradition in Canada, including at this university, of restraint, respect and consideration in expressing even provocative and controversial opinions and urge you to respect that Canadian tradition while on our campus. Hopefully, you will understand and agree that what may, at first glance, seem like unnecessary restrictions to freedom of expression do, in fact, lead not only to a more civilized discussion, but to a more meaningful, reasoned and intelligent one as well.

I hope you will enjoy your stay in our beautiful country, city and campus.

Sincerely,
Francois Houle,
Vice-President Academic and Provost, University of Ottawa

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Related Topics
Francois Houle
Canadian Politics
Government and Politics
University of Ottawa

More On This Story
University to Ann Coulter: Please watch your mouth

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Canada to Coulter: Nice 'Free Speech' You Got There . . . American Spectator - Monday, March 22, 2010

Ann Coulter Threatened With Criminal Charges In Canada NewsHounds - Monday, March 22, 2010

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20100322 sdosm University of Ottawa letter to Ann Coulter
Canadian University threatens Coulter with criminal charges – before she even says a word at her speaking engagement http://tinyurl.com/yf36w6c http://twitpic.com/1ad2ke

http://kevindayhoff.blogspot.com/2010/03/canadian-university-threatens-coulter.html
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