Why should I care?
If you believe in freedom of expression or if have ever expressed a view contrary to the status quo, you should care a whole bunch because you too could face legal action. It’s called a SLAPP suit – Strategic Lawsuit Against Public Participation - an abuse of the legal system by the rich and powerful, governments or corporations, to bully critics and shut down public discussion by threatening dissidents with legal costs and broad prohibitions against speaking out. If they can bully Mordecai, Carel and Gordon, they can bully you.
Canwest’s actions set a dangerous precedent for any and all who express an opinion that someone with money disagrees with. Canadian troops in Afghanistan? Environmental issues? Aboriginal rights? Tasers in the hands of the police? You name it; they can sue you. They may not win, but it will cost you plenty in time, money and the stress of wondering if that article or speech will land you in a whole mess of trouble. Its intent is to bully those who don’t own media conglomerates and have legions of lawyers on retainer, i.e. YOU!
seriously free speech committee
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