Free Speech Union of Canada
Free Speech. Free Minds. Free Society.
The Free Speech Union of Canada is a non-partisan, non-profit membership organization dedicated to the defence of free speech in Canada
Latest News, Cases, Letters & Opinion
Follow the latest developments, legal battles, and opinion pieces as we work to defend free expression across Canada.
- Cases, Videos
Lara Yates v. Chatelech Secondary School (BC School District 46)
- Updated:
- Status: Ongoing
- Subjects: Land Acknowledgments, Public Schools
- Briefing Documents, Videos
FSUC Submits Brief on Bill C9 “Religious Defence” Amendment
- Updated:
- Status: Ongoing
- Subjects: Analysis, C-9, Hate Crimes
Memberships
Memberships
What We Offer
FSU Canada is solely dedicated to defending free speech. We aim to complement other civil liberties organisations in Canada by offering a distinctive brand of services in four categories: Cases, Campaigns, Community & Collaboration.
Cases
We will defend the free speech of individual Canadians in worthy legal cases, subject to our discretion, resources, and capacity.
We will defend the free speech of individual Canadians in worthy legal cases, subject to our discretion, resources, and capacity.
This may take the form of providing direct representation, retaining or referring to outside counsel, or assisting in fundraising, as we deem appropriate.
Since we are not a charity with a mandate tied to the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms, we are able to advance or defend cases where free speech and inquiry are being chilled in non-governmental settings and contexts, such as at universities, and in response to individual human rights claims over “harmful” or discriminatory speech.
In order to comply with various law society regulations in Canada, it is not necessary to be a member or donor to obtain pro bono or subsidized legal assistance.
Campaigns
We recognize that the courts are downstream of politics, which is itself downstream of culture.
We recognize that the courts are downstream of politics, which is itself downstream of culture.
FSU Canada will work to lobby and educate the public and our political leaders on the value of free speech and its importance to Canadians of all backgrounds and walks of life.
This may include sector-specific campaigns, such as regulated professions and universities. When you join us as a member, be sure to tell us your occupation so that we can direct you to targeted campaigns that might be of interest (for example, lobbying provincial governments to protect free speech in the health professions).
Community
FSU Canada is, first and foremost, a community. We are advocates and supporters of the fundamental right of citizens to express themselves freely.
The Free Speech Union of Canada is, first and foremost, a community. We are advocates and supporters of the fundamental right of citizens to express themselves freely.
Beyond that, we have diverse beliefs, opinions, political orientations, and philosophical outlooks. We value robust debate and believe that this is critical to a liberal democracy. We recognize that without free speech, which is under constant threat in our time, we lose the ability to defend all other rights and freedoms.
We understand that we are in this together—whether by taking a personal stand against authoritarian impulses to control our speech, or by making a financial commitment as a member or donor to enable others to fight back—so that we can once again say with confidence that Canada is a free country.
Collaboration
With increased globalization and international organisations which view censorship as a tool for advancing universal initiatives without opposition, it is more important than ever for international collaboration in response.
With increased globalization and international organisations which view censorship as a tool for advancing universal initiatives without opposition, it is more important than ever for international collaboration in response.
Free Speech Unions now exist in the United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa and Switzerland, as well as Canada, with more expected to join. Together, we collaborate as members of a corporate organisation, FSU International, to monitor and respond to global threats to freedom of speech.
Become A Member
Whether you’re looking to connect with others, stand up for your rights, or help push back against growing censorship in Canada, you've come to the right place.
Connect with like-minded free speech advocates at exclusive member events and networking opportunities and in member discussion boards.
In appropriate cases, we will provide discretionary legal support to defend your right to free speech.
Team up with your fellow Canadians in advocating and campaigning for the protection of freedom of speech wherever it is threatened.
Access tools, workshops, and guidance to navigate free speech challenges with confidence.
Who We Are
We are one of several international sister organizations associated with the Free Speech Union in the United Kingdom that was founded by Toby Young in 2020. While these sister organizations share a common vision and purpose, we all operate independently within our own unique political and legal landscapes.
"Does Canada have free speech?"
FSU Canada Executive Director Lisa Bildy and Board Member Bruce Pardy give their answers here:
Our Board & Staff
Our leadership brings together some of Canada's leading free speech advocates and experts.
Our Extended Network
Read more about our international Advisory Board from free speech advocacy groups across the world.
"I am a Canadian, a free Canadian, free to speak without fear, free to worship God in my own way, free to stand for what I think right, free to oppose what I believe wrong, or free to choose those who shall govern my country. This heritage of freedom I pledge to uphold for myself and all mankind."
John Diefenbaker, Prime Minister of Canada 1957-1963, House of Commons Debates, July 1st, 1960
Photo Credit: Gar Lunney / Library and Archives Canada / C-006779
Make a Donation Today
Support Free Speech in Canada
Free speech is under constant threat, and defending it requires resources, advocacy, and legal support. The Free Speech Union of Canada relies on the generosity of members and donors to stand up against censorship, support individuals facing unjust restrictions, and promote a culture of open debate.
Your contribution—large or small—helps us take on critical legal cases, run awareness campaigns, and provide essential resources for those fighting to speak freely. Together, we can push back against the erosion of our fundamental rights and ensure that Canada remains a free society.
Donate today and be a part of the movement to protect free expression for generations to come.
Newsletter
Stay up to date and receive all the latest news, events and insights from FSU Canada in our occasional newsletter
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