2022 marks the 40th anniversary of Canada’s bill of rights, or what is formally known as the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms.
Against that backdrop, in this episode we examine the present-day landscape in Canada for freedom of religion – the first fundamental freedom listed in the Charter.
We talk about the implications of COVID restrictions; why recent federal legislation banning conversion therapy may be the greatest threat to religious freedom at this moment; and what the U.S. Supreme Court’s recent ruling on abortion may or may not mean for Canada.
We also discuss a unique type of “trial” for members of today’s legal profession – namely, the ability to practice one’s faith while practicing law.
Joining us is Albertos Polizogopoulos, one of the most prominent legal practitioners in Canada when it comes to cases and questions involving freedom of religion. On behalf of his broad range of clients – churches, charities, dioceses, schools, universities, hospitals – Albertos has appeared numerous times in front of the Supreme Court of Canada.
Albertos is a partner and founder at his Ottawa-based law firm, The Acacia Group.
Documents/Websites referenced
Albertos Polizogopoulos’ biography (The Acacia Group)
Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms
Bill C-4, An act to amend the criminal code (conversion therapy)
U.S. Supreme Court - Dobbs vs. Jackson
Supreme Court of Canada - R. v. Morgentaler
Supreme Court of Canada - Trinity Western University v. Law Society of Upper Canada
Paul Schratz, “Department of National Defence panel addresses racism with more racism”, Catholic Register (May 5, 2022)
Legal Leaders for Diversity and Inclusion
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Please note that this podcast has been edited for length and clarity.