
Safe Spaces for Artists: Help With Charlie's Legal Costs
Donation protected
In September of 2018, I went on the record with The Globe and Mail in their investigation into one of Canada's foremost choirs, and the behaviour of its since departed conductor, Noel Edison. I accounted for my personal experience as a professional singer with the organization from the years 2009 to 2015. At that time, cultural institutions across North America were reckoning with the #metoo movement; although many of these organizations have since worked diligently to foster safe creative spaces, the fallout of artists speaking truth is still felt today.
Unbeknownst to me, in 2019, Edison filed a civil lawsuit against me and three others in connection with the issues raised in the Globe and Mail article. I received no notice of the lawsuit at that time. In summer of 2022, I was finally notified of this lawsuit. The suit identifies me as the chief defendant and claims $450,000.00 in damages, plus other costs. The lawsuit accuses me of defamation and alleges that I instructed three people to make complaints about Edison. I have never met or spoken to these individuals. This lawsuit is entirely meritless.
I quickly engaged Toronto lawyers Gillian Hnatiw & Co. to represent me.
To date, I have spent approximately $5,000.00 defending myself against this case. I will have to keep paying legal fees until this case is dismissed.
While I have clearly been targeted for speaking the truth publicly, I do not regret having done so. There is a real financial toll that continues, however. In July of 2018, then Minister of Culture Mélanie Joly replied to my letter advocating safe workplaces for artists, commending my "commitment to ensuring safe and productive work conditions" and noting that my suggestions regarding "discussions on workplace integrity have been carefully noted and shared with department officials."
Raised funds will help cover legal costs as the lawsuit should reach its eventual dismissal from the courts. My sister and a dear friend are also team members for this campaign - we are happy to share proof of legal fees and payment.
I thank you for your support in standing up for fair and safe working conditions for artists and precarious workers, as well as their ability to advocate for others and speak the truth without fear.
CD
Fundraising team (2)
Charles Davidson
Organizer
Toronto, ON
Katie Davidson
Team member