Growing Concerns About Bill C-11, C-8, and C-9
In recent years, the Canadian government has passed or introduced several new bills that critics say could limit basic rights like freedom of speech, freedom of expression, and even freedom of association. These rights are protected under the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms, but new laws may be putting them at risk.
The most talked-about of these is Bill C-11, also known as the Online Streaming Act. It became law in April 2023. But now, two newer bills, Bill C-8 (focused on cybersecurity) and Bill C-9 (focused on hate crimes), are raising even more concerns about what these laws mean for ordinary Canadians, especially those who use the internet to share opinions, create content, or take part in peaceful protests.
What Is Bill C-11?
Bill C-11 gives the federal government, through the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC), new powers to regulate online streaming services like YouTube, TikTok, and Netflix.
The government says the bill is about making sure Canadian content is promoted online. But many people worry that it gives the CRTC too much control over what people can see, hear, and say on the internet.
For example:
- The CRTC can influence the algorithms that decide what videos show up on your feed.
- It may prioritize certain voices while hiding others, especially those that don’t match the government’s definition of “Canadian content.”
- Although user content is said to be “mostly exempt,” platforms like YouTube could still be forced to adjust or limit what content is promoted or allowed.
Many creators in Alberta, like comedian Spencer Streichert and YouTuber J.J. McCullough, have spoken out. They say the bill risks silencing diverse voices, especially immigrants and independent creators who don’t meet the government’s narrow content rules.
What’s in Bill C-8?
Bill C-8, introduced in June 2025, is Canada’s newest cybersecurity law. It aims to protect important systems like banking, electricity, and telecom networks from cyberattacks. It creates a new law called the Critical Cyber Systems Protection Act (CCPSA).
Here’s what it does:
- Forces certain companies (like internet providers) to have strong cybersecurity plans.
- Requires companies to report cyberattacks to the government.
- Gives the federal Industry Minister the power to order companies to take action, including possibly cutting off internet or phone services to protect security.
Supporters say this is necessary for national safety. But critics, including civil liberties groups, warn that it could be used to limit people’s access to the internet – possibly without a warrant, court approval, or even telling the person involved – and force the topic of Digital ID.
The bill also allows for strict secrecy. That means companies may not be allowed to tell you why your service was cut or how to challenge the decision.
“A digital ID tied to access and services risks becoming a tool of control rather than convenience. We must ensure that technology serves freedom—not replaces it.”
— Dr. Leslyn Lewis, speaking on digital governance issues, 2023
This raises serious questions about transparency, due process, and even freedom of association—especially if online groups or communities are suddenly blocked or restricted without clear reason.
What Is Bill C-9?
Bill C-9, introduced in September 2025, is called the Combatting Hate Act. It changes the Criminal Code to add tougher rules around hate crimes and hate symbols.
Here’s what the bill does:
- Makes it a crime to intimidate or block access to places like churches, community centers, or cemeteries.
- Bans the public display of hate symbols, like Nazi swastikas or symbols from known terrorist groups.
- Creates a new hate crime offense that adds extra punishment if someone commits a crime with “hateful intent.”
- Changes the legal definition of hatred, now described as strong feelings of “detestation or vilification.”
- Removes the rule that required the Attorney General’s permission to start hate speech prosecutions.
“We have seen the rise in hate-fueled actions across this country. Communities need to know that the law protects them from intimidation and vilification.”
— Peter Julian, public statement, September 2025
The goal is to protect communities from hate, but some groups worry that the bill may go too far. The Canadian Civil Liberties Association and Egale Canada have warned that peaceful protests could be misunderstood or criminalized under the new rules.
But HOW does one define the emotion “hate” into a legal context? This becomes subjective by nature and now our justice system is responding to individual levels of mental toughness rather than demonstrably justified or unjust.
For example, if someone protests near a public building or church and is seen as too loud or emotional, they could be accused of intimidation. Even if their goal was simply to express an opinion. This raises concerns about freedom of expression and peaceful assembly.
How These Laws Work Together
Each bill focuses on something different—streaming content, cybersecurity, and hate speech. But taken together, they show a bigger trend: more government control over what Canadians say, share, and access, especially online.
Critics argue that:
- Bill C-11 affects what content people can find and share online.
- Bill C-8 could allow the government to cut off someone’s internet without warning.
- Bill C-9 could make it easier to criminalize protests and controversial opinions.
All three bills give more power to federal officials and create rules that limit transparency and public debate. This could lead to situations where people are punished or silenced without knowing why or how to defend themselves.
“Freedom of speech is not just the right to say things people agree with—it’s the right to say things others may not want to hear. Government cannot be the gatekeeper of acceptable opinion.”
— Dr. Leslyn Lewis, remarks shared on her official website and social media platforms, 2023
Alberta’s Growing Frustration
In Alberta, these laws have added fuel to long-standing concerns about Ottawa’s growing control over areas like media, energy, and individual rights.
Dr. Dennis Modry, founder and CEO of the Alberta Prosperity Project, says these laws are part of a larger problem. “This is not how democracy is supposed to work,” he said. “Canadians should not be afraid to speak, associate, or create content that doesn’t match the federal government’s viewpoint.”
According to an Angus Reid poll, nearly three-quarters of Albertans feel that their interests are not fairly represented in Ottawa. That feeling is now growing stronger, especially as more people see these bills as threats to basic freedoms.
Why It Matters
Canada has long been seen as a country that respects free speech, open debate, and democratic rights. But with these new laws, many are asking whether that is still true.
While protecting people from hate, cyberattacks, and misinformation is important, it’s also important to protect the rights and freedoms that make Canada a democratic country. When the government gains new powers to control content, limit access to services, or silence protests, it must be held accountable.
These bills are not just about policy—they are about how much control the federal government should have over what Canadians can say, see, and do.
For many, especially in Alberta, the answer is clear: less control, more freedom.
To learn more about the APP’s efforts, visit albertaprosperityproject.com.
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