The Western Standard — through a seven-part series — is recognizing individuals and groups that stood up for Canadians' rights and freedoms during the COVID-19 lockdowns and mandates..The COVID Freedom Heroes series includes people from the legal, law enforcement, and medical establishments, along with everyday individuals who believe the loss of rights and freedoms was not warranted and — in some cases — did more harm than the virus ever could..Since early on in the COVID-19 pandemic, several legal professionals — including many contracted by the Justice Centre for Constitutional Freedoms (JCCF) — have been a major fixture across Canada launching dozens of legal challenges against government and employer-imposed COVID-19 vaccine mandates and public health orders restricting the constitutional rights of Canadian citizens..Lead by founder and President John Carpay, the JCCF is a Canadian legal advocacy organization and charity that — through pro bono legal representation — has worked for 12 years to defend the constitutional freedoms of Canadians. . John CarpayJohn Carpay, founder and president, Justice Centre for Constitutional Freedoms .Carpay said the JCCF — through its 15 or 16 dedicated staff lawyers — has launched hundreds of court cases challenging vaccine passports and lockdown measures in BC, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Ontario and Quebec and called the government narrative a "fraud." ."All of these measures in the past two years and four months, they're all based on the big lie that COVID is as bad as the Spanish Flu of 1918 or the bubonic plague, or that sort of thing," he said. ."The truth is that COVID is worse than an annual flu, however it is less than 1% of the impact that the Spanish Flu had back in 1918." .The JCCF has taken on several larger constitutional challenges, but Carpay said those will take time to make their way through the courts.."Unfortunately, litigation moves at the pace of molasses in February and it's a discredit to the Canadian justice system," said Carpay comparing the slow process in Canada to that of the US where constitutional court actions are typically decided much quicker. .Because of that, Carpay said the JCCF is also "active in the court of public opinion" seeking to educate Canadians with facts surrounding COVID-19 and the constitutional freedoms every person has a right to. ."Reasonably, we could see an end to this ... conversely, if we don't roll up our sleeves and do the hard work of persuading people that are still living in fear, we could see a further slide towards a totalitarian nightmare where we end up with a Chinese-style social credit system," he said. .The JCCF's focus on gradually shifting public opinion is "a very important part of getting our rights and freedoms back," suggested Carpay, adding, "Democracy is fragile." .Here is a timeline of the JCCF’s activity throughout the pandemic:.December 5, 2020 – The JCCF announced it had filed a court challenge against the Alberta UCP government’s health regulations, saying the rules violate charter freedoms.. Dr. Deena HinshawDr. Deena Hinshaw, Alberta's chief medical officer of health .The suit originally involved two Alberta churches and two individuals, but eventually another individual was added to the list of claimants..The JCCF argued the orders violate multiple charter-protected rights, such as the right to peacefully assemble, the right to visit friends and family, the right to freely practice religious beliefs, the right to travel and the right to conduct business and earn a living..READ MORE: Justice Centre sues province of Alberta over COVID restrictions.January 12, 2021 – JCCF announced it would defend 16 people and churches in BC slapped with fines for violating provincial health regulations..At the time, indoor and outdoor gatherings were restricted and in-person church services were banned..The JCCF argued the restrictions were imposed on residents at the same time hundreds of people were flocking to Costco or Walmart outlets..READ MORE: Justice Centre to defend BC COVID defendants.January 31, 2021 – The JCCF advised it planned to file an immediate court challenge of Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s plan to force returning travellers into quarantine at their expense, estimated to be $2,000 per traveller.. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau in a maskPrime Minister Justin Trudeau in a mask .Trudeau announced travellers would be required to stay in isolation facilities, given a COVID-19 test, and if they test negative after three days, they would be able to leave the government-procured facility and finish the remaining quarantine period at home..READ MORE: JCCF set for court battle over Trudeau’s travellers’ quarantine plans.March 17, 2021 – After being charged and jailed for more than a month for continuing to hold services at GraceLife Church, the JCCF announced most charges were dropped against their client, Pastor James Coates..Coates was held in solitary confinement in the Edmonton Remand Centre since February 16 when he was arrested for repeatedly breaking Alberta COVID-19 regulations by holding church services with up to 400 people in his Spruce Grove church..READ MORE: Crown drop most charges against Pastor Coates; to be released from jail shortly.April 6, 2021 – Hefty fines handed down to a Manitoba family were dropped with the help of the JCCF..The family faced the fines after their PCR test results expired two hours before the family arrived at a land border on February 15 to re-enter the country. The family was forced to go into a quarantine facility upon their arrival..READ MORE: Manitoba family has ‘outrageous’ $18,000 COVID fine dropped.April 7, 2021 – The JCCF said it was "outraged" by charter violations after AHS, with the help of police, barricaded GraceLife Church at dawn to prevent access to the building until the church complied with the Alberta government’s public health restrictions.. Pastor James CoatesPastor James Coates, GraceLife Church, Spruce Grove, AB .The church continued to hold Sunday services in defiance of COVID-19 lockdown regulations..READ MORE: UPDATE: RCMP raid GraceLife Church; JCCF ‘outraged’ by ‘unjustified violation’ of charter.April 17, 2021 – JCCF blasted Doug Ford’s “draconian” COVID laws that extended the stay-at-home order another six weeks. Border crossings in Ontario were also controlled and allowed for only essential services such as goods, transit, and medical care to pass..Provincial police officers were given the power to stop anyone and demand identification and an explanation why that person was out..READ MORE: JCCF blasts Ontario’s draconian COVID laws.April 29, 2021 – Alberta Premier Jason Kenney announced new COVID-19 restrictions, which included possible curfews and increased enforcement of many of the rules. .Carpay called the new restrictions nothing more than “an unscientific experiment on the entire population” and said the government is “violating our human rights and charter freedoms.”.“Can lockdown supporters provide even one example in human history of any country, society or civilization that vanquished a virus by destroying its economy and forcing people into poverty, loneliness and isolation?” .READ MORE: JCCF slams new Kenney COVID lockdown restrictions.May 4, 2021 – The JCCF challenged the mandatory vaccine policy for a BC volunteer firefighter by sending a legal warning letter to the Columbia Shuswap Regional District (CSRD) demanding the accommodation of a religious exemption for Craig Nygard..The JCCF says approximately 30 volunteer firefighters in the district lost their positions due to the vaccine mandate, resulting in a shortage of volunteer firefighters..READ MORE: JCCF challenges vaccine policy for BC volunteer firefighters.May 14, 2021 – JCCF successfully challenged an AHS court injunction forbidding Albertans to join protests against the Alberta government’s COVID-19 lockdown measures. The win resulted in a modification to the injunction..The injunction came days before a protest against the COVID-19 lockdowns was held at the Whistle Stop Cafe. .READ MORE: COVID lockdown protesters no longer need to fear arrest after court ruling.June 18, 2021 – The JCCF said it was disappointed with a federal court ruling that found mandatory quarantine hotels at the traveller’s expense were constitutional..The JCCF was in federal court June 1-3 on behalf of Pastor Nicole Mathis and 10 more clients to challenge the government’s policy of forcing Canadians into federally-chosen quarantine hotels and facilities at their own expense..On Feb. 14, 2021, the feds issued an order-in-council forcing international Canadian air travellers to be quarantined for three days in a federally mandated hotel at their own expense, while waiting for COVID-19 PCR test results..READ MORE: Judge declares quarantine hotels constitutional.June 23, 2021 – JCCF celebrated more cases being thrown out by courts in Alberta and Saskatchewan involving people charged with breaking COVID-19 regulations..READ MORE: Courts across the West continue to drop COVID charges.September 15, 2021 – The JCCF said it opposed Elections Canada’s requirement for masking at voter stations for the September 20 federal election.. Calgary Elections Canada polling station .An Elections Canada spokesperson said those who refuse to wear a mask “undermine the safety of polling places.”.JCCF staff lawyer Marty Moore said the federal agency “runs a grave risk” of violating voter rights in Canada if unmasked individuals are turned away..READ MORE: JCCF blasts Elections Canada rules on maskless voting.September 23, 2021 – The JCCF, in a legal warning letter, demanded the Government of Ontario rescind its vaccine passport laws or face legal action..It said if the province fails to do away with the vaccine requirements, it will launch a charter challenge against the Ontario government..READ MORE: Justice Centre gives Ontario final warning over vaxports.September 29, 2021 – The JCCF slammed Alberta’s Chief Medical Officer of Health, Dr. Deena Hinshaw, for contributing to more delays in the constitutional challenge against the Alberta government for her health orders that included lockdown and restrictions measures..Hinshaw, who was scheduled to be cross-examined September 27 and 28, said she was too busy managing the fourth-wave of the COVID-19 pandemic, but ended up taking “vacation days” instead of appearing in court..READ MORE: Justice Centre claims Hinshaw took vacation instead of appearing in court.October 8, 2021 – The JCCF sent a legal warning to AHS President and CEO Dr. Verna Yiu, saying it will commence litigation if AHS brings in a mandatory vaccination policy for its workers.. Dr. Verna YiuFormer AHS president and CEO Dr. Verna Yiu .The JCCF letter called the AHS vaccine mandate “threatening and coercive,” “morally repugnant,” and an “insult to every individual’s inherent human dignity.” The letter said AHS’ mandates “vitiates any possibility of informed consent.”.READ MORE: Justice Centre send AHS legal warning over vaccination mandate.October 18, 2021 – Eight Ontario citizens retained the JCCF and filed a constitutional challenge against the Ontario government’s vaccine mandates in the Ontario Superior Court of Justice..Ontario’s vaccine passport laws were introduced on Sept. 22, 2021 which prohibited individuals from entering restaurants, gyms and other establishments unless they were fully vaccinated. At that time, the JCCF sent the Ontario government a warning letter requesting they rescind their “vaccine passport” laws or face legal action..READ MORE: UPDATED TIMELINE: Justice Centre takes Ontario government to court over vaccine passports.December 7, 2021 – BC dropped five more COVID-19 fines under pressure from the JCCF..“The scientific data unequivocally shows outdoor public gatherings are not, and never were, a public health risk,” said Jay Cameron, litigation director at JCCF..READ MORE: BC drops more COVID fines under pressure from Justice Centre.December 7, 2021 — JCCF sent a warning letter to New Brunswick Minister of Justice Denis Landry regarding a new COVID-19 order approved by the province to allow private sector grocery stores to decide whether or not they will require customers to show proof of vaccination to enter..“An invitation to the private sector to consider such egregious discriminatory practices triggers historic charter violations,” said JCCF staff lawyer Andre Memauri..READ MORE: Justice Centre sends warning to NB: ‘Depriving citizens of food constitutes an act of cruelty’.December 17, 2021 — Four Alberta doctors who were either fired or lost their medical privileges failed in their bid to halt the mandatory vaccination policy brought in by AHS..Court of Queen’s Bench Justice John Henderson dismissed the application for an interim injunction saying it was necessary to hear more comprehensively from AHS before he could fully consider the strength of the legal challenge brought by the doctors..READ MORE: Four AHS docs lose bid to stop mandatory vaccination policy.December 20, 2021 — The government of New Brunswick backed down and revised its public health order to exclude grocery retailers from the option of requiring proof of vaccination for entry..Boyce Farmers’ Market adopted the vaccine passport policy on December 11, but rescinded its policy in an announcement on Twitter and said it will follow the province’s reversal..READ MORE: NB government backs down on vax passports for grocery shopping.February 3, 2022 — The JCCF announced it would represent truckers facing legal action or fines from the Freedom Convoy protests in Ottawa.. Freedom ConvoyFreedom Convoy in Ottawa .“We fight for Canada to become and remain a free society, where the equality of all Canadians and their individual freedoms are celebrated and respected.”.READ MORE: Justice Centre takes on truckers convoy as clients.February 10, 2022 — A JCCF court challenge launched more than a year ago against the Alberta government’s public health measures resumed..Lawyer Leighton Grey — on behalf of the Justice Centre for Constitutional Freedoms (JCCF) — and Jeff Rath, of Rath and Company, were representing three people named as applicants in the lawsuit along with two Alberta Churches..The constitutional challenge — launched in December 2020 — asserts the Alberta government’s public health orders are unlawful and are in violation of the Alberta Bill of Rights..READ MORE: Court challenge of Alberta government’s public health measures underway.February 10, 2022 — People’s Party of Canada (PPC) leader Maxime Bernier, with the help of the JCCF, filed a legal application to challenge the federal government’s travel restrictions prohibiting travel for unvaccinated people.. Maxime BernierPPC Leader Maxime Bernier .In a statement, JCCF said Bernier “is being prevented from fully participating in his political role by Orders issued by Transport Canada, under instructions of the Prime Minister (sic).”.READ MORE: Bernier sues feds over travel restrictions.February 17, 2022 — Just days following the invocation of the Emergencies Act by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, JCCF President John Carpay sat down with the Western Standard to explain the act, discuss what powers it grants the government, and why he believes the threshold has not been met for such measures..READ MORE: WATCH: Justice Centre on Emergencies Act; what you need to know.February 24, 2022 — The JCCF offered free legal help to a Saskatchewan farmer whose bank accounts were frozen after he donated to the Freedom Convoy..READ MORE: Sask. farmer with frozen bank accounts offered free legal help.March 18, 2022 — The JCCF filed a petition in BC’s Supreme Court seeking to abolish the province’s proof-of-vaccination order required for some groups of healthcare workers..The JCCF’s legal challenge cites violations of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms, informed consent, and worker’s privacy..READ MORE: Another legal action filed to end vaccine order for BC healthcare workers.March 25, 2022 — The JCCF announced it would fund the legal defence of Freedom Convoy organizer Tamara Lich, who was arrested and charged with mischief during the Freedom Convoy protests in Ottawa.. Tamara LichTamara Lich .Lich at the time was denied bail, a violation of her rights under Canada’s Charter, said the JCCF..READ MORE: Lich appeals bail conditions citing violations of her Charter rights.April 21, 2022 — The JCCF said it was pleased the University of Ottawa (U of O) announced it would end its vaccine mandates for students as of May 1. The JCCF was representing a pregnant student who was suspended from her program for refusing the COVID-19 vaccine. The student’s doctor said her pregnancy was considered high risk and recommended against the vaccine; however, U of O would not accommodate her..The JCCF also challenged McMaster University’s decision to remove four students from their programs for remaining unvaccinated due to their devout Catholic and Orthodox Christian beliefs..READ MORE: University of Ottawa drops COVID-19 vaccine mandate after pressure from Justice Centre.April 26, 2022 — Tamara Lich was awarded the JCCF’s 2022 George Jonas Freedom Award. Lich “united thousands of Canadians across the country in protest of lockdowns and mandatory vaccine policies,” said the JCCF in a statement..READ MORE: UPDATED: Lich to receive annual JCCF freedom award.April 29, 2022 — Weeks after the City of Calgary secured a temporary injunction on protests in the city’s Beltline neighbourhood, the JCCF announced the city “surrendered” to public pressure..The injunction granted on March 18 gave law enforcement “various powers” to quell protests from Calgarians. But before the city moved forward to obtain a permanent injunction, the city dropped its temporary injunction on April 26..READ MORE: JCCF says City of Calgary ‘surrendered’ to legal challenge on injunction against protesters.April 29, 2022 — JCCF sent an open letter to the City of Ottawa criticizing its plan to “block a planned lawful and peaceful demonstration” referred to as Rolling Thunder Ottawa, lead by a group of motorcycle riders, many of whom are veterans..In advance of the convoy’s arrival, the city announced it would institute a “motor vehicle exclusion zone” in the downtown..READ MORE: Justice Centre calls Ottawa vehicle ban on motorcycle convoy ‘unconstitutional’.May 31, 2022 — The JCCF engaged well-known trial lawyer and former combat officer Phillip Millar to represent a Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) member to fight the mandatory vaccination policy put in place by the CAF..READ MORE: Topp and other soldiers ask court for injunction to prevent dismissal from military.June 10, 2022 — The JCCF launched a lawsuit against the Ontario government for its various COVID-19 restrictions.. Randy Hillier – YES We CAN rally – YouTubejpg .The action included representation for former Ontario independent MPP Randy Hillier, who was charged for participating in anti-lockdown protests..READ MORE: Justice Centre takes legal action against Ontario lockdown measures.June 14, 2022 — The JCCF sent a warning letter to the federal government advising against the denial of Employment Insurance benefits to people fired for refusing COVID-19 vaccines..Employment minister Carla Qualtrough in October said Canadians suspended or fired for being unvaccinated should be unable to receive EI benefits..READ MORE: Justice Centre warns Canadian government for denying EI benefits over vaccine status.Several other civil liberty and constitutional lawyers worked overtime during the pandemic to support tens of thousands of Canadians pushing back against the mandates and lockdowns..Calgary and area civil litigation lawyer James Kitchen supported several clients in the oil and gas sector, including workers with Shell Canada and CNRL employee Naomi Smart who was dismissed for refusing to comply with the company’s mandatory COVID-19 vaccine policy.. James KitchenJames Kitchen, lawyer .READ MORE: Calgary lawyer applauds Shell’s reversal of vax mandate.Kitchen also represented several medical professionals, medical students and launched a mask mandate challenge for a Calgary chiropractor through Liberty Coalition Canada (LCC). LCC is a civil liberties charity focused on defending the rights of Canadians “facing unjust and illegal discrimination for exercising their lawful freedoms,” says LCC on its website..READ MORE: WATCH: Calgary lawyer, medical students discuss COVID vaccine loophole many are trapped in.Civil liberties lawyer Derek From, with Warnock Kraft Anderson, in Airdrie also supported hundreds of clients including several families affected by the proof of vaccination policies introduced by the province and municipalities that impacted youth sports.. Lawyer Derek FromDerek From, lawyer .READ MORE: WATCH: Confusion mounts for parents and facility managers for youth sports vax passports.READ MORE: WATCH: Lawyer weighs in on confusion around vax passports for kids rec.From also supported paramedics and firefighters along with some clients fighting the vaccine mandates in their workplaces..Civil liberties lawyer Jeff Rath of Rath and Company has been very active throughout the pandemic, most notably while working with JCCF-contracted lawyer Leighton Grey in a legal challenge against the Alberta government’s lockdown measures instituted through Alberta’s Chief Medical Officer of Health Dr. Deena Hinshaw’s public health orders.. Jeff Rath, lawyerJeff Rath, lawyer, Rath & Company .READ MORE: WATCH: Calgary lawyer Jeff Rath reviews Dr. Hinshaw’s ‘questionable’ testimony.Rath also represented several doctors in a push against the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta for what he called “unethical conduct” for preventing doctors from treating their patients as they see fit with medicine such as ivermectin, and the forcing of medical workers to be “injected with a COVID-19 vaccine against their will.”.READ MORE: Lawyer sends letter to College of Physicians and Surgeons demanding resignations over mandated vaccines.In October, four Alberta doctors, with the help of Rath, filed a lawsuit against AHS and then president and CEO of AHS, Dr. Verna Yiu, for its COVID-19 vaccination mandates..READ MORE: Four Alberta doctors file lawsuit against AHS and Yiu over forced vaccination.Together, Rath and Grey also launched an investigation in April into suicides in the province and whether lockdowns were a contributing factor..READ MORE: EXCLUSIVE: Calgary lawyers seek investigation into suicides linked to lockdowns.Leighton Grey, a civil liberties and employment lawyer with Grey Wowk Spencer LLP, also worked with CNRL staff to sue the oil conglomerate for its proof of vaccination policy that resulted in hundreds of employees being suspended without pay..READ MORE: Lawyer representing suspended CNRL staff said most will continue with legal action. Posties for FreedomPosties for Freedom .Grey is also currently supporting hundreds of Canada Post employees with legal action against Canada Post and more than 100 WestJet employees suing the airline and the Canadian government over the vaccine mandates..READ MORE: WATCH: Postal workers mount legal action against feds, Canada Post over vax mandates.READ MORE: UPDATED: 112 WestJet employees suing airline, Government of Canada over vax mandates.In September, constitutional lawyer Carol Crosson, with Crosson Constitutional Law, supported more than 3,500 healthcare workers with an open letter to AHS demanding it drop its mandatory vaccination policy for staff..READ MORE: Over 3,500 health care workers demand AHS rescind vaccine mandate. Carol Crosson, lawyerCarol Crosson, lawyer, Crosson Constitutional Law .She also represented nearly 400 post-secondary students by sending warning letters to several institutions across the province over safety and privacy concerns around the proof of vaccination policies. .READ MORE: U of C student raises safety and privacy concerns over mandatory vaccination.Tune in on Thursday, July 28 @ 7 p.m. MDT for part two — COVID Freedom Heroes; Free to Fly.
The Western Standard — through a seven-part series — is recognizing individuals and groups that stood up for Canadians' rights and freedoms during the COVID-19 lockdowns and mandates..The COVID Freedom Heroes series includes people from the legal, law enforcement, and medical establishments, along with everyday individuals who believe the loss of rights and freedoms was not warranted and — in some cases — did more harm than the virus ever could..Since early on in the COVID-19 pandemic, several legal professionals — including many contracted by the Justice Centre for Constitutional Freedoms (JCCF) — have been a major fixture across Canada launching dozens of legal challenges against government and employer-imposed COVID-19 vaccine mandates and public health orders restricting the constitutional rights of Canadian citizens..Lead by founder and President John Carpay, the JCCF is a Canadian legal advocacy organization and charity that — through pro bono legal representation — has worked for 12 years to defend the constitutional freedoms of Canadians. . John CarpayJohn Carpay, founder and president, Justice Centre for Constitutional Freedoms .Carpay said the JCCF — through its 15 or 16 dedicated staff lawyers — has launched hundreds of court cases challenging vaccine passports and lockdown measures in BC, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Ontario and Quebec and called the government narrative a "fraud." ."All of these measures in the past two years and four months, they're all based on the big lie that COVID is as bad as the Spanish Flu of 1918 or the bubonic plague, or that sort of thing," he said. ."The truth is that COVID is worse than an annual flu, however it is less than 1% of the impact that the Spanish Flu had back in 1918." .The JCCF has taken on several larger constitutional challenges, but Carpay said those will take time to make their way through the courts.."Unfortunately, litigation moves at the pace of molasses in February and it's a discredit to the Canadian justice system," said Carpay comparing the slow process in Canada to that of the US where constitutional court actions are typically decided much quicker. .Because of that, Carpay said the JCCF is also "active in the court of public opinion" seeking to educate Canadians with facts surrounding COVID-19 and the constitutional freedoms every person has a right to. ."Reasonably, we could see an end to this ... conversely, if we don't roll up our sleeves and do the hard work of persuading people that are still living in fear, we could see a further slide towards a totalitarian nightmare where we end up with a Chinese-style social credit system," he said. .The JCCF's focus on gradually shifting public opinion is "a very important part of getting our rights and freedoms back," suggested Carpay, adding, "Democracy is fragile." .Here is a timeline of the JCCF’s activity throughout the pandemic:.December 5, 2020 – The JCCF announced it had filed a court challenge against the Alberta UCP government’s health regulations, saying the rules violate charter freedoms.. Dr. Deena HinshawDr. Deena Hinshaw, Alberta's chief medical officer of health .The suit originally involved two Alberta churches and two individuals, but eventually another individual was added to the list of claimants..The JCCF argued the orders violate multiple charter-protected rights, such as the right to peacefully assemble, the right to visit friends and family, the right to freely practice religious beliefs, the right to travel and the right to conduct business and earn a living..READ MORE: Justice Centre sues province of Alberta over COVID restrictions.January 12, 2021 – JCCF announced it would defend 16 people and churches in BC slapped with fines for violating provincial health regulations..At the time, indoor and outdoor gatherings were restricted and in-person church services were banned..The JCCF argued the restrictions were imposed on residents at the same time hundreds of people were flocking to Costco or Walmart outlets..READ MORE: Justice Centre to defend BC COVID defendants.January 31, 2021 – The JCCF advised it planned to file an immediate court challenge of Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s plan to force returning travellers into quarantine at their expense, estimated to be $2,000 per traveller.. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau in a maskPrime Minister Justin Trudeau in a mask .Trudeau announced travellers would be required to stay in isolation facilities, given a COVID-19 test, and if they test negative after three days, they would be able to leave the government-procured facility and finish the remaining quarantine period at home..READ MORE: JCCF set for court battle over Trudeau’s travellers’ quarantine plans.March 17, 2021 – After being charged and jailed for more than a month for continuing to hold services at GraceLife Church, the JCCF announced most charges were dropped against their client, Pastor James Coates..Coates was held in solitary confinement in the Edmonton Remand Centre since February 16 when he was arrested for repeatedly breaking Alberta COVID-19 regulations by holding church services with up to 400 people in his Spruce Grove church..READ MORE: Crown drop most charges against Pastor Coates; to be released from jail shortly.April 6, 2021 – Hefty fines handed down to a Manitoba family were dropped with the help of the JCCF..The family faced the fines after their PCR test results expired two hours before the family arrived at a land border on February 15 to re-enter the country. The family was forced to go into a quarantine facility upon their arrival..READ MORE: Manitoba family has ‘outrageous’ $18,000 COVID fine dropped.April 7, 2021 – The JCCF said it was "outraged" by charter violations after AHS, with the help of police, barricaded GraceLife Church at dawn to prevent access to the building until the church complied with the Alberta government’s public health restrictions.. Pastor James CoatesPastor James Coates, GraceLife Church, Spruce Grove, AB .The church continued to hold Sunday services in defiance of COVID-19 lockdown regulations..READ MORE: UPDATE: RCMP raid GraceLife Church; JCCF ‘outraged’ by ‘unjustified violation’ of charter.April 17, 2021 – JCCF blasted Doug Ford’s “draconian” COVID laws that extended the stay-at-home order another six weeks. Border crossings in Ontario were also controlled and allowed for only essential services such as goods, transit, and medical care to pass..Provincial police officers were given the power to stop anyone and demand identification and an explanation why that person was out..READ MORE: JCCF blasts Ontario’s draconian COVID laws.April 29, 2021 – Alberta Premier Jason Kenney announced new COVID-19 restrictions, which included possible curfews and increased enforcement of many of the rules. .Carpay called the new restrictions nothing more than “an unscientific experiment on the entire population” and said the government is “violating our human rights and charter freedoms.”.“Can lockdown supporters provide even one example in human history of any country, society or civilization that vanquished a virus by destroying its economy and forcing people into poverty, loneliness and isolation?” .READ MORE: JCCF slams new Kenney COVID lockdown restrictions.May 4, 2021 – The JCCF challenged the mandatory vaccine policy for a BC volunteer firefighter by sending a legal warning letter to the Columbia Shuswap Regional District (CSRD) demanding the accommodation of a religious exemption for Craig Nygard..The JCCF says approximately 30 volunteer firefighters in the district lost their positions due to the vaccine mandate, resulting in a shortage of volunteer firefighters..READ MORE: JCCF challenges vaccine policy for BC volunteer firefighters.May 14, 2021 – JCCF successfully challenged an AHS court injunction forbidding Albertans to join protests against the Alberta government’s COVID-19 lockdown measures. The win resulted in a modification to the injunction..The injunction came days before a protest against the COVID-19 lockdowns was held at the Whistle Stop Cafe. .READ MORE: COVID lockdown protesters no longer need to fear arrest after court ruling.June 18, 2021 – The JCCF said it was disappointed with a federal court ruling that found mandatory quarantine hotels at the traveller’s expense were constitutional..The JCCF was in federal court June 1-3 on behalf of Pastor Nicole Mathis and 10 more clients to challenge the government’s policy of forcing Canadians into federally-chosen quarantine hotels and facilities at their own expense..On Feb. 14, 2021, the feds issued an order-in-council forcing international Canadian air travellers to be quarantined for three days in a federally mandated hotel at their own expense, while waiting for COVID-19 PCR test results..READ MORE: Judge declares quarantine hotels constitutional.June 23, 2021 – JCCF celebrated more cases being thrown out by courts in Alberta and Saskatchewan involving people charged with breaking COVID-19 regulations..READ MORE: Courts across the West continue to drop COVID charges.September 15, 2021 – The JCCF said it opposed Elections Canada’s requirement for masking at voter stations for the September 20 federal election.. Calgary Elections Canada polling station .An Elections Canada spokesperson said those who refuse to wear a mask “undermine the safety of polling places.”.JCCF staff lawyer Marty Moore said the federal agency “runs a grave risk” of violating voter rights in Canada if unmasked individuals are turned away..READ MORE: JCCF blasts Elections Canada rules on maskless voting.September 23, 2021 – The JCCF, in a legal warning letter, demanded the Government of Ontario rescind its vaccine passport laws or face legal action..It said if the province fails to do away with the vaccine requirements, it will launch a charter challenge against the Ontario government..READ MORE: Justice Centre gives Ontario final warning over vaxports.September 29, 2021 – The JCCF slammed Alberta’s Chief Medical Officer of Health, Dr. Deena Hinshaw, for contributing to more delays in the constitutional challenge against the Alberta government for her health orders that included lockdown and restrictions measures..Hinshaw, who was scheduled to be cross-examined September 27 and 28, said she was too busy managing the fourth-wave of the COVID-19 pandemic, but ended up taking “vacation days” instead of appearing in court..READ MORE: Justice Centre claims Hinshaw took vacation instead of appearing in court.October 8, 2021 – The JCCF sent a legal warning to AHS President and CEO Dr. Verna Yiu, saying it will commence litigation if AHS brings in a mandatory vaccination policy for its workers.. Dr. Verna YiuFormer AHS president and CEO Dr. Verna Yiu .The JCCF letter called the AHS vaccine mandate “threatening and coercive,” “morally repugnant,” and an “insult to every individual’s inherent human dignity.” The letter said AHS’ mandates “vitiates any possibility of informed consent.”.READ MORE: Justice Centre send AHS legal warning over vaccination mandate.October 18, 2021 – Eight Ontario citizens retained the JCCF and filed a constitutional challenge against the Ontario government’s vaccine mandates in the Ontario Superior Court of Justice..Ontario’s vaccine passport laws were introduced on Sept. 22, 2021 which prohibited individuals from entering restaurants, gyms and other establishments unless they were fully vaccinated. At that time, the JCCF sent the Ontario government a warning letter requesting they rescind their “vaccine passport” laws or face legal action..READ MORE: UPDATED TIMELINE: Justice Centre takes Ontario government to court over vaccine passports.December 7, 2021 – BC dropped five more COVID-19 fines under pressure from the JCCF..“The scientific data unequivocally shows outdoor public gatherings are not, and never were, a public health risk,” said Jay Cameron, litigation director at JCCF..READ MORE: BC drops more COVID fines under pressure from Justice Centre.December 7, 2021 — JCCF sent a warning letter to New Brunswick Minister of Justice Denis Landry regarding a new COVID-19 order approved by the province to allow private sector grocery stores to decide whether or not they will require customers to show proof of vaccination to enter..“An invitation to the private sector to consider such egregious discriminatory practices triggers historic charter violations,” said JCCF staff lawyer Andre Memauri..READ MORE: Justice Centre sends warning to NB: ‘Depriving citizens of food constitutes an act of cruelty’.December 17, 2021 — Four Alberta doctors who were either fired or lost their medical privileges failed in their bid to halt the mandatory vaccination policy brought in by AHS..Court of Queen’s Bench Justice John Henderson dismissed the application for an interim injunction saying it was necessary to hear more comprehensively from AHS before he could fully consider the strength of the legal challenge brought by the doctors..READ MORE: Four AHS docs lose bid to stop mandatory vaccination policy.December 20, 2021 — The government of New Brunswick backed down and revised its public health order to exclude grocery retailers from the option of requiring proof of vaccination for entry..Boyce Farmers’ Market adopted the vaccine passport policy on December 11, but rescinded its policy in an announcement on Twitter and said it will follow the province’s reversal..READ MORE: NB government backs down on vax passports for grocery shopping.February 3, 2022 — The JCCF announced it would represent truckers facing legal action or fines from the Freedom Convoy protests in Ottawa.. Freedom ConvoyFreedom Convoy in Ottawa .“We fight for Canada to become and remain a free society, where the equality of all Canadians and their individual freedoms are celebrated and respected.”.READ MORE: Justice Centre takes on truckers convoy as clients.February 10, 2022 — A JCCF court challenge launched more than a year ago against the Alberta government’s public health measures resumed..Lawyer Leighton Grey — on behalf of the Justice Centre for Constitutional Freedoms (JCCF) — and Jeff Rath, of Rath and Company, were representing three people named as applicants in the lawsuit along with two Alberta Churches..The constitutional challenge — launched in December 2020 — asserts the Alberta government’s public health orders are unlawful and are in violation of the Alberta Bill of Rights..READ MORE: Court challenge of Alberta government’s public health measures underway.February 10, 2022 — People’s Party of Canada (PPC) leader Maxime Bernier, with the help of the JCCF, filed a legal application to challenge the federal government’s travel restrictions prohibiting travel for unvaccinated people.. Maxime BernierPPC Leader Maxime Bernier .In a statement, JCCF said Bernier “is being prevented from fully participating in his political role by Orders issued by Transport Canada, under instructions of the Prime Minister (sic).”.READ MORE: Bernier sues feds over travel restrictions.February 17, 2022 — Just days following the invocation of the Emergencies Act by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, JCCF President John Carpay sat down with the Western Standard to explain the act, discuss what powers it grants the government, and why he believes the threshold has not been met for such measures..READ MORE: WATCH: Justice Centre on Emergencies Act; what you need to know.February 24, 2022 — The JCCF offered free legal help to a Saskatchewan farmer whose bank accounts were frozen after he donated to the Freedom Convoy..READ MORE: Sask. farmer with frozen bank accounts offered free legal help.March 18, 2022 — The JCCF filed a petition in BC’s Supreme Court seeking to abolish the province’s proof-of-vaccination order required for some groups of healthcare workers..The JCCF’s legal challenge cites violations of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms, informed consent, and worker’s privacy..READ MORE: Another legal action filed to end vaccine order for BC healthcare workers.March 25, 2022 — The JCCF announced it would fund the legal defence of Freedom Convoy organizer Tamara Lich, who was arrested and charged with mischief during the Freedom Convoy protests in Ottawa.. Tamara LichTamara Lich .Lich at the time was denied bail, a violation of her rights under Canada’s Charter, said the JCCF..READ MORE: Lich appeals bail conditions citing violations of her Charter rights.April 21, 2022 — The JCCF said it was pleased the University of Ottawa (U of O) announced it would end its vaccine mandates for students as of May 1. The JCCF was representing a pregnant student who was suspended from her program for refusing the COVID-19 vaccine. The student’s doctor said her pregnancy was considered high risk and recommended against the vaccine; however, U of O would not accommodate her..The JCCF also challenged McMaster University’s decision to remove four students from their programs for remaining unvaccinated due to their devout Catholic and Orthodox Christian beliefs..READ MORE: University of Ottawa drops COVID-19 vaccine mandate after pressure from Justice Centre.April 26, 2022 — Tamara Lich was awarded the JCCF’s 2022 George Jonas Freedom Award. Lich “united thousands of Canadians across the country in protest of lockdowns and mandatory vaccine policies,” said the JCCF in a statement..READ MORE: UPDATED: Lich to receive annual JCCF freedom award.April 29, 2022 — Weeks after the City of Calgary secured a temporary injunction on protests in the city’s Beltline neighbourhood, the JCCF announced the city “surrendered” to public pressure..The injunction granted on March 18 gave law enforcement “various powers” to quell protests from Calgarians. But before the city moved forward to obtain a permanent injunction, the city dropped its temporary injunction on April 26..READ MORE: JCCF says City of Calgary ‘surrendered’ to legal challenge on injunction against protesters.April 29, 2022 — JCCF sent an open letter to the City of Ottawa criticizing its plan to “block a planned lawful and peaceful demonstration” referred to as Rolling Thunder Ottawa, lead by a group of motorcycle riders, many of whom are veterans..In advance of the convoy’s arrival, the city announced it would institute a “motor vehicle exclusion zone” in the downtown..READ MORE: Justice Centre calls Ottawa vehicle ban on motorcycle convoy ‘unconstitutional’.May 31, 2022 — The JCCF engaged well-known trial lawyer and former combat officer Phillip Millar to represent a Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) member to fight the mandatory vaccination policy put in place by the CAF..READ MORE: Topp and other soldiers ask court for injunction to prevent dismissal from military.June 10, 2022 — The JCCF launched a lawsuit against the Ontario government for its various COVID-19 restrictions.. Randy Hillier – YES We CAN rally – YouTubejpg .The action included representation for former Ontario independent MPP Randy Hillier, who was charged for participating in anti-lockdown protests..READ MORE: Justice Centre takes legal action against Ontario lockdown measures.June 14, 2022 — The JCCF sent a warning letter to the federal government advising against the denial of Employment Insurance benefits to people fired for refusing COVID-19 vaccines..Employment minister Carla Qualtrough in October said Canadians suspended or fired for being unvaccinated should be unable to receive EI benefits..READ MORE: Justice Centre warns Canadian government for denying EI benefits over vaccine status.Several other civil liberty and constitutional lawyers worked overtime during the pandemic to support tens of thousands of Canadians pushing back against the mandates and lockdowns..Calgary and area civil litigation lawyer James Kitchen supported several clients in the oil and gas sector, including workers with Shell Canada and CNRL employee Naomi Smart who was dismissed for refusing to comply with the company’s mandatory COVID-19 vaccine policy.. James KitchenJames Kitchen, lawyer .READ MORE: Calgary lawyer applauds Shell’s reversal of vax mandate.Kitchen also represented several medical professionals, medical students and launched a mask mandate challenge for a Calgary chiropractor through Liberty Coalition Canada (LCC). LCC is a civil liberties charity focused on defending the rights of Canadians “facing unjust and illegal discrimination for exercising their lawful freedoms,” says LCC on its website..READ MORE: WATCH: Calgary lawyer, medical students discuss COVID vaccine loophole many are trapped in.Civil liberties lawyer Derek From, with Warnock Kraft Anderson, in Airdrie also supported hundreds of clients including several families affected by the proof of vaccination policies introduced by the province and municipalities that impacted youth sports.. Lawyer Derek FromDerek From, lawyer .READ MORE: WATCH: Confusion mounts for parents and facility managers for youth sports vax passports.READ MORE: WATCH: Lawyer weighs in on confusion around vax passports for kids rec.From also supported paramedics and firefighters along with some clients fighting the vaccine mandates in their workplaces..Civil liberties lawyer Jeff Rath of Rath and Company has been very active throughout the pandemic, most notably while working with JCCF-contracted lawyer Leighton Grey in a legal challenge against the Alberta government’s lockdown measures instituted through Alberta’s Chief Medical Officer of Health Dr. Deena Hinshaw’s public health orders.. Jeff Rath, lawyerJeff Rath, lawyer, Rath & Company .READ MORE: WATCH: Calgary lawyer Jeff Rath reviews Dr. Hinshaw’s ‘questionable’ testimony.Rath also represented several doctors in a push against the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta for what he called “unethical conduct” for preventing doctors from treating their patients as they see fit with medicine such as ivermectin, and the forcing of medical workers to be “injected with a COVID-19 vaccine against their will.”.READ MORE: Lawyer sends letter to College of Physicians and Surgeons demanding resignations over mandated vaccines.In October, four Alberta doctors, with the help of Rath, filed a lawsuit against AHS and then president and CEO of AHS, Dr. Verna Yiu, for its COVID-19 vaccination mandates..READ MORE: Four Alberta doctors file lawsuit against AHS and Yiu over forced vaccination.Together, Rath and Grey also launched an investigation in April into suicides in the province and whether lockdowns were a contributing factor..READ MORE: EXCLUSIVE: Calgary lawyers seek investigation into suicides linked to lockdowns.Leighton Grey, a civil liberties and employment lawyer with Grey Wowk Spencer LLP, also worked with CNRL staff to sue the oil conglomerate for its proof of vaccination policy that resulted in hundreds of employees being suspended without pay..READ MORE: Lawyer representing suspended CNRL staff said most will continue with legal action. Posties for FreedomPosties for Freedom .Grey is also currently supporting hundreds of Canada Post employees with legal action against Canada Post and more than 100 WestJet employees suing the airline and the Canadian government over the vaccine mandates..READ MORE: WATCH: Postal workers mount legal action against feds, Canada Post over vax mandates.READ MORE: UPDATED: 112 WestJet employees suing airline, Government of Canada over vax mandates.In September, constitutional lawyer Carol Crosson, with Crosson Constitutional Law, supported more than 3,500 healthcare workers with an open letter to AHS demanding it drop its mandatory vaccination policy for staff..READ MORE: Over 3,500 health care workers demand AHS rescind vaccine mandate. Carol Crosson, lawyerCarol Crosson, lawyer, Crosson Constitutional Law .She also represented nearly 400 post-secondary students by sending warning letters to several institutions across the province over safety and privacy concerns around the proof of vaccination policies. .READ MORE: U of C student raises safety and privacy concerns over mandatory vaccination.Tune in on Thursday, July 28 @ 7 p.m. MDT for part two — COVID Freedom Heroes; Free to Fly.
