Three stories we’re following in June

We’re already into June- here are three stories Helix is following this month:

• The federal government introduced the Safe Social Media Act (Bill C-34) in the House of Commons. The new legislation regulates social media and AI chatbot services, targeting severe online harms and protecting children. The bill will create a new independent regulator, the Digital Safety Commission of Canada, enforcing transparency and statutory obligations on tech operators. There is more to be done to protect children’s privacy rights, but this is a step in the right direction.
• Happy Pride to all who celebrate. We’re concerned with recent setbacks in the LGBTQs2+ movement globally and in Canada. Everyone deserves the same right to be happy and live the life they want to live.
• We’re heartened by the recent Waterloo decision about homeless in Canada, laying out the rights of homeless people, children and youth. In the landmark ruling, the Ontario Superior Court declared that discriminatory treatment of people experiencing homelessness is a violation under the Charter of Rights & Freedoms.