Windsor, ON – LaSalle resident Jeremy Palko has filed an application with the Human Rights Tribunal of Ontario (HRTO), as of September 16, 2025, alleging the Greater Essex County District School Board (GECDSB) denied him the right to speak about faith-related concerns at a public board meeting.

Freedoms Advocate, a federally registered Canadian charity, is providing funding for legal counsel in this case.

Mr. Palko had asked to address trustees at the September 17, 2024 meeting on how board policies affect people of faith within the district. His request was refused.

Mr. Palko, an active community member and Christian, requested to address trustees on how people of faith are impacted by GECDSB policies. His request was denied on the stated basis that Ontario’s public education system is secular. The application argues this denial violates the Ontario Human Rights Code, which prohibits discrimination in services on the ground of creed, noting also that it infringes Charter-protected freedoms of expression and religion.

The remedies sought include:

– Compensation for injury to dignity, feelings, and self-respect;
– Equal opportunity to present his remarks at a future public meeting;
– A written apology from GECDSB;
– Policy clarification to align with human rights law;
– Training for trustees and staff on their obligations under the Code.

Freedoms Advocate supports Canadians facing violations of constitutional and human rights and is committed to defending faith, family, and freedom.

Canadians wishing to support this case can make a charitable donation to Freedoms Advocate. Donations directly fund legal representation in cases that protect Canadians’ freedoms.