In today’s onlife world, teens are navigating complex issues like free speech, consent, and personal boundaries, both online and offline. Through our educational programs, “Cyberbullying, Sexting, Sextortion, Nudes, AI-Generated Intimate Images, and Canadian Law” and “Law Studies 11/12 – Social Media, Critical Thinking, and The Law,” we’ve engaged with high school students and encountered thought-provoking questions from them about their rights and responsibilities.
Many teens believe they have the right to “free speech” in Canada. However, this concept originates from American law. Under Section 2 of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms, Canadians are granted the freedom of thought, belief, and expression, which includes speech. But unlike the absolute protection in the U.S., Section 1 of the Charter states that these freedoms are subject to “reasonable limits prescribed by law.”
In Canada, governments can impose limits on speech if deemed reasonable. For instance, Section 33(1) of the Charter allows Parliament or provincial legislatures to adopt laws restricting freedom of expression, provided these restrictions comply with Section 1. This means that while teens may feel empowered to express themselves online, there are legal boundaries, such as hate speech or explicit threats, which can lead to significant consequences.
As an example – you may have the right under the Charter to yell “fire”, but if you do it in a busy theatre when there is no fire, you face being arrested.
The misinterpretation of freedom of expression often leads some teens to believe they can say or do anything online, even if it offends others. This misunderstanding has normalized the presence of hateful, threatening, or explicit content on social media which can often break Canadian law.
For example, many teen girls report feeling resigned to receiving unsolicited explicit images, such as “dick pics,” from male peers – it’s not uncommon to hear teen girls state to us, “we just have to accept the fact that this is what boys do.” It’s crucial to debunk this normalization. In Canada, sending such images without consent is illegal, and teens have the right to take action. Not only is this behavior unacceptable, but it also carries significant legal consequences for the sender. Teens must understand that their actions online are not exempt from the law. When we share this fact with teen boy’s, the look of bewilderment on their faces is indescribable because they had no idea that what they were doing was illegal – none!
Consent remains one of the most misunderstood concepts among teens and, unfortunately, even some adults. A recurring misconception is that consent differs online versus offline. This is incorrect. Canadian courts have made it clear that consent in any form, especially when it comes to sexual intimacy, whether offline or online, is identical.
Teens must understand that explicit, informed, and enthusiastic consent is required in all interactions. Educating young people about consent is key to fostering respectful relationships, both online and offline, and ensuring they understand the serious legal and emotional implications of violating someone’s boundaries. Here’s an article with an embedded video we did on consent.
Our programs aim to equip teens with the knowledge and tools they need to navigate the complexities of free speech, consent, and expectations responsibly. By teaching teens about their rights and the reasonable limits set by Canadian law, we empower them to challenge harmful behaviors and stand up for themselves and their peers.
Parents and caregivers play a vital role in reinforcing these lessons at home. Open, honest conversations about digital responsibility, consent, and the boundaries of free expression can help teens make informed decisions online. This is important because once they hit the “send” button, they are now criminally and civilly libel for whatever happens next. They can’t say, “I didn’t mean to send that” or “it was just a joke”
The onlife world offers immense opportunities for connection and learning, but it also brings challenges that teens must navigate thoughtfully and responsibly. Misunderstandings about free speech, consent, and personal accountability often lead to behaviors that can have serious legal and emotional consequences. By providing teens with accurate information about their rights and the reasonable limits of Canadian law, we can empower them to make better decisions online and offline.
Parents, caregivers, and educators are vital allies in this mission. Open, ongoing conversations about consent, respect, and digital responsibility can equip teens with the tools they need to navigate these challenges confidently. With a shared commitment between educators and families, we can foster a generation of informed, respectful, and empowered digital citizens.
As teens grow and become more independent in their online interactions, it’s crucial for them to understand that their digital dossier follows them beyond their teenage years. Messages, posts, and images shared today can have long-term repercussions, from personal relationships to future educational and career opportunities. Helping teens recognize this can guide them in making more thoughtful choices about what they share and how they engage online.
Addressing these topics with teens shouldn’t be a one-time conversation. Regular discussions help normalize these critical conversations and encourage teens to come forward with questions or concerns as they arise. Parents and caregivers can also lead by example, modeling respectful communication and thoughtful decision-making in their own online activities.
While teens may face peer pressure or societal norms that attempt to normalize inappropriate behaviors, empowering them with the knowledge of their rights and the tools to stand up for themselves is a step toward cultural change. Together, we can challenge the harmful behaviors and attitudes that teens often encounter, creating a safer and more respectful online world for everyone.
By working together as parents, caregivers, educators, and community members, we can support teens in becoming not only responsible digital citizens but also empathetic and respectful individuals – both online and offline. The foundation we help them build today will serve them well in navigating the complexities of tomorrow’s onlife world – this is why digital literacy education is so important!
Schools and youth groups are essential allies in educating teens about their rights and responsibilities in the onlife world. If you’re looking for a way to engage your teens on these important topics, consider booking one of our programs.
Our programs cover not only the nuances of freedom of expression, consent, and expectations but also teach teens how to push back against the misuse of the freedoms protected by the Canadian Charter. Together, we can create a generation of digitally literate, responsible, and empowered individuals.
If you’d like to learn more or schedule a program, reach out to us. Let’s work together to help teens understand their rights, their responsibilities, and the tools they need to navigate the onlife world with confidence.
Digital Food For Thought
The White Hatter
Facts Not Fear, Facts Not Emotions, Enlighten Not Frighten, Know Tech Not No Tech
