The Foundation Against Intolerance and Racism (FAIR) in Canada is deeply saddened by the recent violence which appears to have targeted a gender studies professor at the University of Waterloo (the allegations have not been tested in court). FAIR promotes free speech as a core principle upon which Canada’s liberal democracy is founded. We defend all speech, regardless of content, within the limits of the law. We support respectful disagreement and believe that bad ideas are best confronted with better ideas—never with dehumanization or violence. Universities must be areas where free speech and diverse ideas can flourish. Attempts to intimidate or silence a university professor must not be tolerated. We wish those affected the fastest possible recovery.
