Is it a question of an artist’s right to freedom of expression, or a question of a customer’s right, under Canada’s Human Rights Code, not to be discriminated against? “A standup comedian’s right to use controversial language is under scrutiny at a B.C. Human Rights Tribunal hearing that starts Monday. The case dates back to May 22, 2007, when Toronto comedian Guy Earle was hosting a comedy show at Zesty’s Restaurant. Lorna Pardy, a restaurant patron, charged that Earle subjected her and her same-sex partner to ‘a tirade of homophobic and sexist comments,’ according to the tribunal’s preliminary decision that the case should be heard. .. Pardy’s lawyer, Devyn Cousineau, said Pardy and her friends had just moved inside the restaurant from the patio when Earle started launching discriminatory digs at them, allegedly using words like “dykes” and sexually graphic language. She said Earle even went as far as breaking Pardy’s sunglasses. Pardy is seeking an award $20,000.” [Montreal Gazette]
the unfunnies
Comedian Guy Earle Said Mean Things About 2 Lesbians, and They’d Like $20,000 For It, Thank You
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Chris
I guess Lisa Lampanelli should cancel that Canada trip, then. She’s the biggest insult comic of them all.
DeAnimator
Insulting is different than being a bigoted douche.
terrwill
Funny, he looks kinda dyke like………
@Chris: Yea, but at least she is funny (and a huge fan of the Gays)
aalan brickman
he’s a jerk…but freedomof speech cannot be suppressed because of one jerk…now the polically correct will come for me….
orpheus_lost
@aalan brickman: What’s “politically correct” is trying to make yourself a preemptive victim by saying people are going to come after you. If you think you’re man enough to voice an opinion, be man enough to take the hit when someone disagrees with you as well.
Now, there’s a difference between freedom of speech and speech that incites violence or hatred. Canada is not the United States, no matter how many people want to think of it as the 51st state. It has its own laws that have been enacted at the will of the people. If they feel that this comedian incited hatred or violence then they will deal with it.
I just hope you’re this vocal about laws in countries that make it legal to arrest and kill gays.
jeffree
He’s Canadian so probably should bone up on Canadian rules/ laws on hate speech before hurling insults. Comedy isnt just about words, it is about tone of voice. And being funny helps 2. Know your audience!
Pick only one target and u sound like a GUY with a axe to grind.
BUT pick *many many* targets & u get hired to write 4 SOUTH PARK! Very bad career move for Earle …. Hollywood won’ t be calling. Lawyers will. Or have.
Who is Guy Earle’s barber? i really want my hair to look like that! Which products does he use 2 get that shiny mane ? Dang foto is going to give me night mares !
ousslander
just ridiculous. Pardy should be put under some other adult’s supervision if she is so damaged from some jokes even lame ones.
Canuck
Hey, lots more details here: http://www.xtra.ca/public/National/UPDATE_aposSomebody_stick_a_dick_in_her_mouth_and_shut_her_upapos-8436.aspx
Saying “Somebody stick a dick in her mouth and shut her up” is not okay….