Victory!

I am thrilled to announce the first major victory in my legal battle with the Waterloo Region District School Board.

Watch my video update: 

Let me recap the events that caused me to sue the School Board. On January 17, 2022, I voiced concerns about inappropriate sexual content in my elementary school library. Despite two decades of teaching experience, I was abruptly silenced by the Chair, falsely accused of breaching the Human Rights Code and publicly vilified as a promoter of hate speech. In response, I filed a Judicial Review and a Defamation Lawsuit against the Board to clear my name, protect vulnerable children, and defend free expression. The Judicial Review was heard in June, and we are still waiting for that decision.

In September, while the Defamation Lawsuit was in progress, the Board filed an Anti-SLAPP motion, asking the court to dismiss my lawsuit. Ironically, the Board claimed that I was trying to suppress their free speech.

We devoted many hours preparing to respond to this absurd Anti-SLAPP motion, culminating in a Superior Court hearing on November 22nd.

I am overjoyed to report that the judge dismissed the Board’s motion, allowing my defamation lawsuit to proceed. In his written decision, Justice Ramsay affirmed that I did not breach the Human Rights Code, nor did I engage in hate speech. He was highly critical of The Board’s conduct, stating that their actions were 'defamatory' and that my case has 'substantial merit'.

This victory is a resounding affirmation of free expression. In his written decision, Justice Ramsay said,

“The Human Rights Code does not prohibit public discussion of anything.”

“I find it regrettable that the defendant, who is trying to shut down debate, is an arm of the government.”

“What happened here should not happen in a democratic society.”

The school board has thirty days to initiate an appeal but I hope this stern rebuke from the court will dissuade them. Our next action will be either to prepare for the appeal or to move to the next stage of the Defamation Suit.  

It cost me $47,000 to defend this Anti-SLAPP motion.  Provided the Board does not appeal, they must pay $30,000 toward my costs.  Still, this action will have depleted my legal fund by $17,000 and the Defamation Lawsuit is just getting started. Please consider donating to my GoFundMe campaign and help me fight and win for all of us.

Donate Now: https://www.gofundme.com/f/carolyn-burjoski-vs-wrdsb-legal-fund/donate 

You can enjoy the full details of Justice Ramsay’s decision, please visit cancelledteacher.com.

In closing, this victory is just one step in a longer journey. Thank you to everyone who has contributed to my campaign so far. This is OUR victory! Let’s keep the momentum going!

Sincerely,

Carolyn Burjoski