The glory days of big cash payouts at the Canadian “Human Rights” Commission are receding further and further into the past.
By the way, Connie’s right to thank the intervenors – the Canadian Civil Liberties Association and the Canadian Internet Policy and Public Interest Clinic.
The Canadian Civil Liberties Association writes:
CCLA had argued that, while the internet should not be used as a shield to allow individuals to break the law, neither should a simple request to the courts result in the disclosure of identifying information. Highly personal communication occurs online. Indeed, many use online anonymity as a way to explore difficult issues (political, legal, sexual, medical, etc.) that they might not feel free to explore publicly. The internet is a highly accessible democratic forum, with virtually limitless opportunities for discussion and debate. Court orders that force individuals to reveal the identity of those who choose to participate anonymously could chill this rigorous discussion, particularly on sensitive personal topics. Anonymity on the internet should not be compromised simply because a private individual has filed a statement of claim.
