Newsletter

April 2010

University Of Ottawa’s Letter To Ann Coulter

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

National Post, March 22, 2010.