Freedom of Speech, Freedom from Hate

The Case Against Maclean’s: Reacting to Racism or Muzzling the Media?

Date: Tuesday July 15, 2008
Time: 7:00 p.m.
Location: Auditorium, Noor Cultural Centre
Admission: $5

The human rights complaints against Maclean’s magazine by the Canadian Islamic Congress and four lawyers is that the magazine consistently published articles which allegedly portrayed Muslims in a negative light and in a manner which would promote hate.

The solution demanded by the complainants is the opportunity to present counterviews in the magazine. Maclean’s has responded that the right to free speech includes the right to publish unpopular and even offensive opinions.

This face-off has raised an interesting and important debate about balancing freedom of speech with freedom from hate – both fundamental values in our Canadian system.

Noor Cultural Centre is pleased to present an evening of discussion and debate with a panel of distinguished experts from a variety of fields and of differing views and experiences.

Panelists

Raj Anand, former Chief Human Rights Commissioner for Ontario and current Chair of the Board of Directors of the Human Rights Legal Support Centre

Dr. Karen Mock, human rights educator, hate crimes specialist and consultant

Jonathan Kay, Comments Editor, The National Post

Alia Hogben, Executive Director, Canadian Council of Muslim Women