Statement on the University of Toronto Injunction Ruling

CUJS commends the decision of the Ontario Superior Court of Justice to grant the University of Toronto an injunction against the encampment in King's College Circle.

The Court made itself clear: The encampment is illegal and contrary to trespassing laws.

While protesting is a fundamental right in Canada, the judge rightly noted that the protesters crossed a line: "Excercising freedom of expression is not a defense to trespass"

The judge chronicled many troubling instances of hate speech by attendees, including: "Death to the Jews, Hamas for Prime Minister"

Unfortunately, the perpetrators were separate from the named respondents, meaning the judge could not take action against them. We urge the University of Toronto to take furthur action and hold accountable those who espouse hateful sentiments on campus.

In the meantime, the injunction sends a clear message to encampments across Canada: you are not above the law.

We hope that this important precedent will discourage similar encampments from being established and empower university administrations to take the steps necessary to preserve the safety and inclusivity of academic environments in Canada.

We look forward to seeing similar actions taken at other encampments.

Canadian Universities must ensure the rights of the community are upheld.