Pro-Life Group’s Case Raises Critical Questions About the Limits of Free Speech in the Digital Age

Commentary The Ontario Court of Appeal’s Aug. 2 decision in the case 40 Days for Life v. Dietrich struck a delicate balance between freedom of speech and the protection of individuals from harassment and harm when expressing their views. This case involved Brooke Dietrich, a pro-choice advocate, and the group 40 Days for Life, which advocates against abortion. Dietrich used TikTok to post videos criticizing 40 Days for Life, encouraging viewers to sign up for their vigils but not attend. She accused the group of spreading misinformation and harassment, and shared the personal contact information of two employees, resulting in harassing phone calls and online abuse....