Jordan B. Peterson, PhD – for those unfamiliar with his candid, articulate talks on controversial issues (transgenderism, woke ideologies…), he is an accomplished author and clinical psychologist with a degree in political science. Described as a ‘traditionalist’, one thing that is for sure – he has absolutely no filter when it comes to speaking his mind…on just about anything. THIS is the source of his popularity.

His profession is governed by the College of Psychologists of Ontario (CPO) who, like any professional agency, set a standard for professionalism within the industry, not unlike surgeons, engineers, or teachers.

The issue came when the CPO extended its policy reach from his professional career to include everything he chooses to say, regardless of topic, audience, or applicability to the profession.

The CPO disciplined him for opinions shared on his then-twitter account, ordering him to attend mandatory ‘social media training’. He believed this was a breach of his individual freedom of expression and an overreach by the CPO.

He, and his legal team at the Canadian Constitutional Foundation, pursued the issue in court only to have the Ontario Divisional Court dismiss their application, stating “the college’s decision falls within its mandate to regulate the profession”, “and does not impact (his) freedom of expression.” He was further ordered to pay legal fees amounting to $25k.

Every Canadian working in a professional capacity, be it within the trades or at a PhD level, is governed by a similar agency. While they must enforce the highest standards within their profession, both for success and to guard against liability, the question is whether your employment should be held in the balance of everything you do and say outside of your career. Is it acceptable for your employer, union, or agency to threaten your livelihood for a personal opinion they ‘perceive’ may have an impact on the profession as a whole?

Realizing that there are grey areas within this debate, we must acknowledge that the act of obtaining the credentials of your choice should not negate your right to freedom of speech or expression.

To read the Press Release written by the Canadian Constitution Foundation click here 

To read the decision by the Ontario Superior Court of Justice, click here