End Online Violence Against Women Journalists in Canada

In the last few months the CFWIJ has documented dozens of cases of online violence against women journalists in Canada - majority of them from far right, anti-immigrant and anti-mask groups. However, it is no surprise that the digital space has become hostile towards women journalists right after right wing politician Maxime Bernier tweeted a provocative message targeting the Canadian press community. A move that has historically led to journalists receiving hateful backlash from his support base.

There is significant correlation between Maxime Bernier’s provocative tweets against journalists and hostile campaigns towards women in the press community. Last year, a similar act by the politician led to over 20 women journalists being targeted through an organized hate campaign. They came forward, sharing screenshots of the abuse they received as a result of Bernier unjustifiably instigating his support base against the press. The journalists work for different organizations and cover different beats, and have been solely targeted with vile racist and sexist rhetoric. 

The Coalition For Women In Journalism extends its complete support to the women journalists currently being targeted in the country. We condemn the actions of Maxime Bernier whose reckless and insensitive tweets led to the entire press community feeling vulnerable to hate and threats. 

Campaign Videos

CFWIJ calls to end online trolling against women journalists in Canada

CFWIJ global members in solidarity join to speak against the growing online trolling.

Online Trolling Against Canadian Women Journalists

Canadian women journalists who have been targeted speak up against online trolling.

Award-winning journalist Brandi Morin

speaks up against online trolling that she was targeted with and shares some of the threatening messages that she received.

Journalist Elizabeth Renzetti

speaks up against online trolling and says “Stop Gender-Based Violence”.

Journalist Jen Osborne

speaks up against online trolling, tells why it is not okay for anyone.

Journalist Marsha Lederman

speaks up against online trolling, shares some messages that were sent by trolls who threaten her.

Journalist Saba Eitzaz

speaks up against online trolling, tells that this harms everyone, and demands an end to this.

Journalist Megan Davidson

speaks up against online trolling and mentions that online violence against women is not acceptable.