Solidarity with Rachel Gilmor and press freedom

The Canadian Freelance Union stands in solidarity with Canadian Journalist Rachel Gilmore following reported attempts to intimidate her in connection with her investigative reporting exposing a group of white nationalists referred to as “fight clubs” training out of gyms in Montreal. Rachel Gilmore is an award-winning journalist with extensive experience reporting on federal politics, human rights, disinformation, and extremism. The acts of intimidation are not just personal attacks against her, but rather, a direct assault on press freedom in Canada. 

This incident occurs against an alarming backdrop of a rise in racism, misogyny, and white nationalist extremist activity across Canada. Journalists covering these movements put themselves at risk by exposing these threats to our communities. These acts of intimidation are unconscionable but also legally actionable under Canadian Law, including provisions against harassment, threats, and intimidation. 

As an independent journalist, Rachel takes personal risks to bring Canadians reporting that matters. Yet freelancers often lack the institutional support available to staff reporters when incidents occur on the job. When covering the far right in particular, independent journalists are frequently more exposed and face heightened risks while doing their work.

Even more concerning is that no mainstream media outlets have reported on this act of intimidation. Journalists must be protected and have the freedom to do their jobs without fear of violence and intimidation.  The lack of coverage sets a dangerous precedent that only emboldens extremist elements to act with impunity.

The Canadian Freelance Union unequivocally stands in solidarity with Rachel Gilmore and with all independent journalists in Canada who continue to report under conditions of precarity and personal risk. 

If any member of the Canadian Freelance Union experiences harassment or attacks from the far right and needs personal support, please contact the CFU President or Organizer immediately so we can assist.

Contact: organizer@canadianfreelanceunion.com