The freelance editor and a member of the Freedom of Expression Committee of the Book and Periodical Council Franklin Carter discusses Freedom to Read Week, with Joseph Planta.

Text of introduction by Joseph Planta:

I am Planta: On the Line, in Vancouver at THECOMMENTARY.CA.

It is Freedom to Read week in Canada, and it’s important not just at this time but year round to think about the issues surrounding freedom of expression and censorship. We Canadians tend to believe we can think, express, and consume freely, and for the most part we do. However it is necessary we know that in this country there has been a rise in the number of ‘challenges’ to reading material in libraries. As well, the recent decision from the Canadian Broadcast Standards Council—after a single complaint—to ban the song ‘Money for Nothing’ by Dire Straits provoked much discussion. These are important issues worth thinking about this week, as well it’s good to look at what’s happening that’s positive. The Supreme Court has recognised the defence of ‘public interest responsible communication’ which grants writers, broadcasters, publishers and bloggers a new legal defence against libel. Joining me now is Franklin Carter, who’ll give us a view onto his work, and the state of freedom in this country. He is a freelance editor, who since 1996, has handled and researched censorship issues for the Book and Periodical Council’s Freedom of Expression Committee, which organises Freedom to Read Week. There are events throughout the country, which you can find out about at www.freedomtoread.ca. Please welcome to the Planta: On the Line program, in Toronto, Franklin Carter; Good morning, Mr. Carter.

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