Press Declaration: Dire Warning for Canada’s Future if Section 13 is Not Reinstated Immediately

Press Declaration: Dire Warning for Canada’s Future if Section 13 is Not Reinstated Immediately

Issued by: Marie Seshat Landry, CEO, OSINT Spymaster & Peacemaker

Date: September 14, 2024

Location: Moncton, NB, Canada

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The removal of Section 13 of the Canadian Human Rights Act by Stephen Harper’s government in 2013 has turned Canada into a breeding ground for hate speech, extremism, and terrorism, allowing neo-Nazi activities to flourish unchecked. The consequences of this repeal are clear: Canada's digital landscape has become a haven for those who spread hate, incite violence, and threaten our national security. The Canadian Human Rights Commission (CHRC) and the RCMP’s inaction in addressing these threats amount to a de-facto condoning of Nazi activities and far-right extremism.

Section 13 was a critical legal tool that protected Canadians from hate propaganda online, prohibiting messages likely to expose individuals to hatred or contempt based on race, religion, sexual orientation, and other protected grounds. Its repeal has created a dangerous legal vacuum, leaving Canada vulnerable to those who use digital platforms to spread fascist ideologies without fear of reprisal.

The case of Andrew "Christo" Nelson, a self-admitted neo-Nazi from New Brunswick, exemplifies the dangers posed by this legislative gap. Despite issuing direct threats against individuals, including myself, and inciting violence against political leaders, the RCMP has failed to take meaningful action, stating that displaying Nazi symbols and violent rhetoric does not constitute a crime. This failure to act is a direct result of the absence of Section 13 and highlights a broader institutional negligence that must be addressed immediately.

Canada’s authorities have ignored the growing menace of hate speech, emboldening extremists and putting all Canadians at risk. The rise of far-right threats is not confined to individuals but poses a grave national security concern, as seen in Nelson’s calls for insurrection and civil war against Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and U.S. President Joe Biden. Canadian institutions, including the CHRC, have washed their hands of responsibility, leaving those targeted by hate speech without protection or recourse.

This inaction sends a dangerous message: Canada is a safe haven for extremists. By failing to address hate speech, the Canadian government and law enforcement are effectively endorsing the spread of fascist ideologies. As threats of insurrection and violence grow, Canada risks descending into a dark era of division, conflict, and social unrest.

I issue a dire warning: Canada’s failure to reinstate Section 13 or introduce comparable legislation will have dire consequences for our country’s future. The unchecked spread of hate and extremism poses an existential threat to our democracy, public safety, and national security. Without immediate action, Canada’s reputation as a leader in human rights will be irreparably damaged.

I call on the Canadian government to reinstate Section 13 immediately, strengthen monitoring and enforcement mechanisms, and hold accountable those who incite hate and violence. Canadians deserve protection from extremist threats, and it is the government’s duty to safeguard our society from the rising tide of hate.

Let us not stand idly by while our values and safety are compromised. The time to act is now.