Over the past few days, some of our columnists have been the target of serious threats on social media.
This reality also affected our journalists assigned to cover certain events, including the anti-sanitary measures demonstrations that took place in Ottawa and Quebec City. Following a search of a residence in Lévis this week, one of our journalists was physically assaulted and his assailant is currently in court.
Yesterday, it was the turn of our columnist Sophie Durocher to receive threats and derogatory comments on social networks, following a column.
We cannot tolerate this situation and we strongly denounce it.
We are proud of the great diversity of opinion that we offer our readers every day thanks to our team of columnists. It’s in the DNA of Newspaper.
Our columnists enjoy total freedom as long as they exercise it by respecting the rules that govern their freedom of expression in our free and democratic society.
We are well aware that as much as their opinions may be shared by readers, they may displease or provoke discussion. We also encourage the response and the debates of ideas that their opinions arouse. On the other hand, our columnists must be able to share their opinion calmly, without fearing for their integrity.
The safety of our employees and associates is our priority, and any threats to them will be referred to the police. This is what Sophie Durocher will do over the next few days, with our full support.
For us, there is a limit that should not be crossed.
We now invite all parties to continue these necessary societal debates with respect and serenity.
Dany Doucet
Vice President Information
QMI Media Logs
Reference-www.journaldemontreal.com