The CCLA recently wrote to the Clerk of the City of Toronto expressing concerns about a City policy that prohibits candidates in the upcoming municipal election from campaigning on City property. Interpreted broadly, this policy may have the effect of prohibiting campaigning on public sidewalks, in public parks and in local community centres. The precise scope of the policy is not clear and has been interpreted in different ways by different City officials. In the CCLA’s view, this policy unduly restricts the right to freedom of expression and, in limiting political speech in the weeks preceding an election, does a disservice to both candidates and voters. In addition, the policy does not appear to be clearly laid out in any law, by-law or guideline and is so open to interpretation that it is questionable whether candidates really know what they are permitted and not permitted to do.
To read the CCLA’s letter to the Toronto City Clerk, please click here.
