Canadians everywhere continue to fight for the freedoms that our government has been systematically stripping away, using one manufactured emergency or another as justification.

Fortunately, we have groups like The Democracy Fund (TDF) fighting with us. They (and others) have been fighting tirelessly for Canadians who have been unfairly targeted, like those of the Amish communities.
Late last year another chapter in this fight ended when TDF successfully defended members of the Amish community in Niagara Provincial Court, against claims of noncompliance with Covid-19 regulations (the Quarantine Act), and their ‘refusal’ to use the ArriveCan app.

Yes, more than 5 years later, the covid debacle is still circulating through our judicial system, and will continue to do so, until the egregious wrongs of our government have fully been undone.

It is well understood by most Canadians, although not by our government apparently, that the Amish communities across Canada live a secluded, highly devout and simple life, free of electronic convenience and many other modern inventions that we take for granted.

To expect a community living under these beliefs and the restrictions they adhere to, to suddenly purchase and operate a smart phone because the government deems it necessary, is a gross dismissal of all that they believe and shows a complete disrespect for their religious freedoms, imposing hardships on them that stand directly in opposition of their Charter Rights to Freedom of Religion and Mobility. Accused individuals faced significant fines and property liens, threatening their homes and way of life.

TDF applied to reopen two of these cases; one was granted while the other was denied. The court rightly overturned the conviction. TDF Senior Litigation Counsel, Adam Blake-Gallipeau, stated “We are pleased with the result since it ensures that our client is no longer threatened with the destruction of his credit rating and financial penalties.” TDF has represented over 30 individuals from the Amish community, advocating for their fair treatment and their Charter Rights.

While many Canadians think covid is a thing of the past that we should just ‘get over’, our courts remain bogged down with those still fighting for their rights against overreaching government policies, many of which have since been legally denounced by our courts.

Stripping rights from citizens can happen quickly, with the stroke of a pen, while fighting to restore them takes years and tireless efforts from many. The covid-era debacle lives on until all wrongs have been set straight and all affected citizens have their dignity and rights restored.

Although exhaustion looms heavily on all of us, we must continue to stand strong for all. We stand with TDF and all who hold the line in the fight for our Charter Rights and Freedoms.

To read more from The Democracy Fund and/or donate, click here