Protect Freedom of Expression, a Cornerstone of Canadian Democracy

On February 20, 2025, Montreal police charged Yves Engler, a prominent Canadian activist and author of 13 books, with harassment and indecent communication. 

The charges stem from Yves calling pro-Israel media personality Dahlia Kurtz a “genocide” supporter and a “fascist” on X (formerly Twitter) referencing her public commentary. Engler then wrote about the charges against him on his blog, asking for support. The Canadian Foreign Policy Institute organized an action campaign, and over 3,500 people have written to the Montreal police asking them to drop the charges.

In response, Montreal police have added additional charges against Yves, for allegedly intimidating and harassing investigator Crivello through his writing on the case. Engler denies all the charges, asserting that he has never met Kurtz or communicated directly with her. He views the arrest as politically motivated, aimed at suppressing criticism of Israel’s actions in Gaza. For now, Yves remains in detention and his legal proceedings are ongoing.

Freedom of expression is a cornerstone of a democratic society. And yet, across the country, Zionist and right-wing organizations are using the legal system to shield Israel from criticism. Many of these frivolous cases seek to intimidate and muzzle activists. 

As a union, we recognize attacks against journalists and activists as attempts to criminalize solidarity. Labour leaders such as Fred Hahn, President of CUPE Ontario, have faced similar attacks for their outspoken support for Palestinian rights.

According to Juristnews, the initial charges over his social media posts “raise significant concerns under Section 2(b) of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms, as his social media criticism of Kurtz’s public positions represents political speech on matters of public interest.” 

The Canadian Freelance Union is extremely concerned about the charges against Yves and demands they be dropped. Simply put, they constitute an attack on freedom of expression and an attempt to criminalize opposition to the Canadian state’s complicity in genocide. Engler’s case will have significant implications for the boundaries of free speech, worker rights, and activism in Canada. 

For more information, contact organzier@canadianfreelanceunion.ca