Brickbat: I Disavow My Actions

Arielle Kayabaga, a Liberal Party member of Canada's Parliament, has distanced herself from a petition that she herself sponsored after critics argued it could restrict journalism and the public's ability to document what happens in public places. The petition calls for a new law making it an offense to "knowingly record" people "in public" who are experiencing homelessness, a mental health crisis, serious drug or alcohol impairment, or another condition that makes them especially vulnerable, when the recording is intended for publication or distribution. Supporters say the measure would protect vulnerable people from exploitation, harassment, and public exposure, while critics argue it could interfere with journalism and make it harder to document homelessness, drug use, mental health problems, and other public issues. In response to criticism, Kayabaga's spokesperson stressed that an M.P. who sponsors a petition is just facilitating public participation in Parliament and does not necessarily agree with its contents or recommendations.