For immediate release

VANCOUVER, BC – Tomorrow, November 15, 2017, the BC Court of Appeal releases its decision in Vancouver Aquarium Marine Science Centre v. Charbonneau, a case challenging a restriction on the display of parts of a film that is critical of the Aquarium.

The Vancouver Aquarium claims that filmmaker Mr. Charbonneau included various segments in his film that are subject to copyright, or were used in breach of contract. Mr. Charbonneau defends his use of these materials, arguing that his criticisms of the Vancouver Aquarium’s treatment of aquatic mammals serves an important public purpose.

The BC Civil Liberties Association (“BCCLA”) intervened in the case to resist the censure of critical public speech. When deciding whether or not to issue an injunctive order that limits expression, the BCCLA asked the Court of Appeal to adopt a framework that balances any benefit to be achieved by the order against the harm for both speakers and listeners that results from limits on expression.

The BCCLA’s full argument in the case can be found here.

The BCCLA is represented by Monique Pongracic-Speier of Ethos Law Group.

WHAT: BC Court of Appeal to release decision in Vancouver Aquarium Marine Science Centre v. Charbonneau

WHEN: Wednesday, November 15, 2017 at 10:00 AM

WHERE: BC Court of Appeal (Vancouver, BC)

CONTACT: Monique Pongracic-Speier at (604) 569-3022 extension 2