The format of a My Take is 150 words – no more, no less – to express an
opinion on a different topic each week. This week the topic was free speech.
When the Quebec government enforced their measures to slow the pandemic, their decisions were viewed as an infringement upon our freedoms.
A movement of COVID deniers emerged and ‘fake news’ began to spread like wildfire.
Under the Quebec Charter of Rights and Freedoms, freedom of speech and freedom of opinion are considered “fundamental freedoms;” but limits can be placed so long as they are reasonable and justified.
In a time of extreme crisis, with thousands of Quebecers falling ill each day and a collapsing health care system and economy, the government’s actions are more than reasonable.
So, the next time you think about sharing that piece of ‘research’ you came across on some unknown Twitter account, keep it to yourself.
If you don’t believe in the virus, at least follow protocols out of respect for others.
It’s these simple actions that can save a life.
