Nobody particularly likes being treated unkindly or criticized; for municipal politicians, a consistent stream of angry constituents can become tiring (to put it kindly).
Nonetheless, the criticism and pressure come with the job—a job that every elected politician in this country not only volunteered for, but also spent their own money (and that of donors) campaigning for.
In recent years, some municipalities have begun implementing bylaws restricting peaceful political expression at public meetings.
As I’ve noted repeatedly, the Charter of Rights and Freedoms protects political expression, and the public has the right to attend council meetings with signs, t-shirts, or any other non-disruptive means of expression they choose. (You also do not have to provide ID to observe a meeting.)
Two weeks ago, the City of Whitehorse backed down and amended its August 2024 “civility policy” by removing bans on microaggressions, signs in public meetings, ‘disrespectful’ attire, and censuring residents for ‘inappropriate’ comments.
The Canadian Constitution Foundation began a legal challenge against the bylaw. They announced that Whitehorse Council’s amendments are sufficient enough for the CCF to end its legal challenge.
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v. 1.0.0
Published: May 31, 2025
Last updated: May 31, 2025
Author: Joey Coleman
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