Memorial University claimed that my use of former president Vianne Timmons’ first name on my protest sign, along with an image of her on another, constituted harassment rather than legitimate criticism of a public figure. Their argument suggests that addressing a university president by first name and using their image is somehow inappropriate or personal.
Yet, political discourse in Canada routinely includes posters featuring politicians’ first names and images, often created by major political parties themselves. Party leaders are central to political branding and election campaigns, making such depictions a standard part of public debate.
On a poster by the Conservative Party, there is an image of Mark Carney looking at a portrait of Justin Trudeau with the words “JUST LIKE JUSTIN.” On a poster by the New Democratic Party, Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre is being held with strings by a puppet master with the words “BILLIONAIRE BOOTLICKER” in bold and a sign on him that says “FOR SALE.”
Memorial’s argument is TOTAL BULLSHIT!!
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