<br />try the "edit" button if u wanna soften opinion.<br />peace,<br />M.Y.
I believe that in this country this would be a clear violation of the First Amendment.
I understand and agree, however, the Canadian court has interpreted the law to include biblical passages. <br /><br />
Which passage was out of context? The fact is the bible does contain passages condeming homosexuality (especially Leviticus). I'm not condoning such things. Leviticus also suggests that we should burn a cow because the "smell is pleasing to God." It also suggests that adulterers should be stoned to death. The point is that the Canadian courts have effectively placed restrictions on the free expression of biblical passages. <br /><br />I believe that SW's intent was to demonstrate Canada's restrictions on freedom of expression. Quite frankly this concerns me as well. At what point will the expression of any negative opinion about the behavior of others be construed as "hate". Why do gays deserve special attention in this regard? If I express my disagreement with the policies of a liberal politician, could this be construed as hate?
<br /><br />When are they going to outlaw the Tora, the Karan, and all the rest? <br /><br />This is OBSERD! Let's face it, laws are subject to interpretation, and public opinions change. Look back at the transition of Black Americans, from slavery, to segragation, to equality. Many people spoke out against equality, but since then public opinion has changed, and racial discrimination has subsequently been outlawed. At one point, segregation was a simple fact of life, but now speaking out against equality can land you in jail. <br /><br />At one point, homosexuality was thought of as a gross perversion, something to be ashamed of and hidden. Nowadays, we have adopted a "live and let live" philisophy, and homosexuality is accepted. Thus speaking out against it falls under the the laws of "hate speech". Gays are not recieving special attention, it's that public opinion is changing. Can you argue that black people are recieving special attention in this regard, since it is illegal to speak out against equality for black people?
Since when? Not in this country. The First Amendment prohibits the government from banning such speech. What you are seeing is the change in public opinion regarding these issues. There is no longer anyone who believes in inequality, or if they are, they're afraid to speak out. Note: the First Amendment does not protect one from non-governmental action against the speaker. For example, the first amendment says the government cannot prohibit a bigot from carrying a white supremist sign to a NAACP rally. The first amendment does not guarantee that man protection from the resulting riot. In fact, the man may be civily liable for enciting a riot. <br /><br />This issue has nothing to do with specific beliefs regarding gays or anyone else. It has everything to do with freedom of expression. I see Canada's ban on such statements as a slipery slope. Where does it end? Are Canadian citizens prohibited from making hateful statements toward anyone else? If not, why not? If so, this is a huge blow to personal liberty in Canada.
<br />Toad, I feel for you guys up there. This is really scary in my view. Who gets to define what "propaganda" is? What groups are currently on the list? To think I was in Victoria last summer. While driving behind someone on a cell phone, I said "I hate people who talk on the phone while they drive." I'm glad I didn't say it too loud, I could have been arrested.<br /><br /> 
I personally don't think a law that inhibits free speech is a "Good move", but thats me.Good move, Canada
