Randal Linton of Waterloo Ontario was fed up with social gathering restrictions implemented during Covid-19, like so many other Canadians. He chose to express his views by attending an anti-lockdown rally in 2021.

Video of the rally made its way to authorities and soon Mr. Linton found himself charged with failing to comply under the Reopening Ontario Act, with an additional charge added under the Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act.

This was a serious matter. A conviction could have left him with a sentence of up to one year in jail and fines up to $100,000, just for exercising his Charter rights of peaceful assembly and freedom of speech.

Fortunately, Mr. Linton had the incredible support of The Democracy Fund (TDF), a Canadian charity dedicated to protecting constitutional rights (among other causes).
With their support and advocacy in negotiations an agreement was reached; all charges were dropped, and Mr. Linton can again breathe easy.

As part of the resolution, he must donate $300 to a local food bank.

Mr. Linton voiced his relief, “I wouldn’t have been able to pay a serious fine, and the stress on my family was huge. I’m grateful for the work TDF did.”

TDF lawyer Adam Blake-Gallipeau expressed satisfaction with the outcome, “Mr. Linton’s participation in the rally was a legitimate exercise of his Charter rights to peacefully assemble and express his views. We are pleased that he can now move forward with his life”.

For the first time since its inception, our Charter is being challenged by all levels of government and throughout our judiciary. We know the full intention that brought about its creation, but never has it been tested as it is being now, in the post-Covid era.

Cases like this highlight the importance of knowledge and experience, of having a qualified advocate, able to provide a robust defence in the protection of our individual rights.

Please continue to support The Democracy Fund, and other non-profit groups that work tirelessly to strengthen and secure the rights and freedoms of all Canadians.

To read the article written by The Democracy Fund, click here