Hate and Harm: Rethinking Dignity, Dissent & Equality in Canadian Law

February 27, 2024 | The Human Rights Program at Harvard Law School hosted a seminar with a focus on the evolution of hate and discriminatory speech. This seminar built upon the foundation laid by the Max Bell School's previous conference in 2022, "Humour, Hate, and Harm," which focused on rethinking dignity, equality, and freedom of expression. The recent seminar delved deeper into the dynamics of Canadian law and human rights.

Pearl Eliadis led the discussion and provided a platform for rigorous examination of legal frameworks in addressing contemporary challenges, including the implications of landmark decisions like Ward v. Quebec. The discussion expanded to encompass the implications of the recent Canadian Online Harms Act, shedding light on its potential to reshape the digital landscape and safeguard individuals from online harm. Participants explored the complexities of dissent rights, equality, and human dignity within the evolving legal framework. By addressing emerging legal challenges such as online harms alongside established principles, the seminar underscored the ongoing imperative to adapt legal frameworks to effectively address contemporary societal issues.