Freedom of Speech
Presenter: TBA
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Details to follow.
Questions for discussion below:
Legal Foundations & Constitutional Protections
How is freedom of speech protected under the U.S. Constitution versus the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms?
What are the key differences in wording and interpretation?
To what extent do the First Amendment (U.S.) and Section 2(b) of the Charter (Canada) protect hate speech, misinformation, or offensive content?
How do courts in each country balance free expression with public safety or dignity?
Limits and Exceptions
What types of speech are explicitly limited or regulated in Canada that might be protected in the U.S.?
Consider hate speech laws, defamation, and restrictions on protest.
How do both countries handle speech in the context of national security, such as during wartime or in response to terrorism?
Cultural and Political Context
How do cultural attitudes toward free speech differ between Canadians and Americans?
Is there a stronger emphasis on individual rights in the U.S. versus collective responsibility in Canada?
How do political polarization and media landscapes influence public discourse and freedom of speech in each country?
Contemporary Issues
How have recent events (e.g., protests, social media controversies, misinformation) tested the boundaries of free speech in Canada and the U.S.?
What role do universities and academic institutions play in shaping the debate around free speech in both countries?
Are there differences in how campus speech is regulated or protected?
Digital Speech & Social Media
How do Canadian and U.S. laws address freedom of speech on digital platforms like X (Twitter), Facebook, or YouTube?
Should governments regulate online speech more aggressively?
What are the implications of private companies setting their own speech policies?
Is this a threat to free speech or a necessary safeguard?
Please join the Zoom Meeting here: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/971381033