“SLAPP-suits” or “Strategic Lawsuits Against Public Participation” are intended to silence individuals or groups from speaking out on matters of public interest. 

After many years of advocacy, including addressing two bills in the Ontario legislature, CELA’s efforts were instrumental in convincing the Ontario Government to pass the Protection of Public Participation Act, 2015. 

This law ensures that members of the public can participate in democratic processes without fear of being sued. The provisions of this law have been upheld by  the Supreme Court of Canada.

See also Ontario’s Anti-SLAPP Advisory Panel archived webpage.