VP of University of Ottawa threatens Ann Coulter with criminal charges?

In a letter from the Vice-President of the University of Ottawa François Houle writes Ann Coulter:

“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”

“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” (see full letter here)

Unbelievable!! This is from the same university that allows Israeli Apartheid Week (see here). Did all those speakers receive the same warning letter?

Also: see the University of Ottawa’s Student Federation trying to stop Coulter from speaking here

8 Responses to “VP of University of Ottawa threatens Ann Coulter with criminal charges?”

  1. Ted Says:

    It’s a stupid and offensive letter, but there is no threat of bringing charges. That would be even more monumentally moronic since he has no ability to bring charges.

  2. The Lynch List, 22-Mar-2010 « The Lynch Mob Says:

    […] her seat! Binky suggests we contact Mr. Houle and exercise some of that free speech. (noted by BCF, BC Blue, Jay Currie, Jon Narvey,Moose&Squirrel, Miss Marprelate, and more than I have time to […]

  3. rob Says:

    and then Ann proceeds to tell a Muslim student at Western to ride a camel instead of flying…?

  4. Conservative Senators demand free speech « BC Blue: One BC Conservative's view on it all… Says:

    […] see earlier post on University of Ottawa fiasco here Posted in Uncategorized. Leave a Comment […]

  5. U of O Pres Alan Rock OK’ed Coulter warning letter « BC Blue: One BC Conservative's view on it all… Says:

    […] Ex-Liberal cabinet minister and current University of Ottawa president Alan Rock has finally come out of hiding and now admits he knew and condoned the warning letter sent to Ann Coulter by vice-president of academic affairs, François Houle. (see threat here) […]


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