Faxed Press Release (27 November 1995)

PEN CANADA

Fighting for Freedom of Expression

The Canadian Centre
International PEN
Suite 309
24 Ryerson Avenue
Toronto, Ontario
Canada M5T 2P3
Tel (416) 703-8448
Fax (416) 703-3870
pencan@web.apc.org

Statement re: Gerald Hannon/Ryerson Polytechnic University

PEN Canada is dedicated to the defence of freedom of expression, in all its forms, around the world. We are in favour of open and honest debate, because we believe it is a basic human right and essential to a democratic society. We are against the censoring of ideas and opinions, however fallacious or wicked they may be. People are capable of determining for themselves what is valid and what is nonsensical.

Our efforts are almost exclusively directed against governments and government laws that seek to persecute and intimidate individuals because of their views. In that regard, the current controversy involving Ryerson Polytechnic UNiversity and the journalist Gerald Hannon falls outside PEN Canada's basic mandate. So far, at least, it is an internal matter between an organization and an employee relating to a number of issues beyond freedom of expression per se.

We are concerned, however, about the degree to which Gerald Hannon has been attacked at the university and in the media for publishing and speaking his beliefs. Without condoning those beliefs in any way, we wish to reaffirm our conviction that writers should not be silenced, nor should they be per secuted solely for the peaceful expression of their views.

(End of unsigned text. Letterhead lists executive as President Nino Ricci, Policy Director Isabel Harry, Administrative Director Margaret Purcell and others.)

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Jeff Lindstrom <au834@freenet.carleton.ca>