May 25th 1998: The day Free Speech Died In Canada

The Canadian Human rights Commission hearing the complaint about the Zundelsite has declared that truth is no defence in what ever you say. Rather, what is more important, is the effect on the listener.

The following is an excerpt:

". . . consistent with a focus on effect rather than intent, it is the effect of the message on the recipient, and ultimately on the person or group vilified, that is the focus of the analysis. The truth in some absolute sense really plays no role. Rather, it is the social context in which the message is delivered and heard which will determine the effect that the communication will have on the listener. It is not the truth or falsity per se that will evoke the emotion but rather how it is understood by the recipient. The objective truth of the statement is ultimately of no consequence if the subjective interpretation, by virtue of tone, social context and medium is one which 'arouses unusually strong and deep-felt emotions of detestation, calumny and vilification'. Therefore, in our view, whether the message is true or not is immaterial. Whether it is perceived to be true or credible may very well add to its impact, but its actual basis in truth is outside the scope of this inquiry."

The bottom line?

If any one is offended in any way by anything that you have written, you can be punished for saying it....

EVEN IF WHAT YOU HAVE SAID
IS THE GOD'S HONEST TRUTH

• Zundelsite The Webpage the CHRC doesn't want you to see.
• ACC Niagara
• Niagara Freedom Web

http://www.niagara.com/~freedom/accniag/chrcrule.htm