Former Chilliwack school trustee, Barry Neufeld (left) and former BC Teacher's Federation President Glen Hansman (right).
The Supreme Court of Canada has dismissed a defamation lawsuit initiated by a former B.C. school trustee against a former teacher’s union president.
Barry Neufeld, who was a trustee in Chilliwack, made negative comments in 2017 about how a sexual orientation and gender identity program was being implemented in the province’s schools.
Glen Hansman, the president of the BC Teachers’ Federation at the time, criticized Neufeld’s comments in an interview with the media, which then prompted the trustee to bring a defamation claim.
“I hope this decision makes things easier for anyone speaking in defense of a marginalized community, particularly those speaking in defense of 2SLGBTQ youth and trans people generally, without having to be fearful of retaliatory legal action,” Hansman said in a statement.
It is a good day for our province, our country, and most specifically our LGBTQ2S+ communities. Confirmation that speaking out in support of marginalized individuals & communities-including students-and against harmful speech is supported and should be protected! @bctf @bcpoli pic.twitter.com/wVnI8L2JVy
— Clint Johnston (@ClintJohnston7) May 19, 2023
In the same statement, current BCTF President, Clint Johnston said the ruling is “a clear win” for people who have faced legal action that aims to intimidate or silence legitimate public criticism.
“It is also an affirmation of the importance of standing up for vulnerable communities and marginalized individuals,” Johnston said.
“I want everyone in British Columbia’s education community, particularly LGBTQ2S+ teachers, students, and families, to know that the BCTF will always stand up for your safety and inclusion in our schools.”
Johnston joined NL Newsday with Brett Mineer Friday afternoon to discuss the ruling and what it means.
– With files from The Canadian Press
