CCF warns B.C. regulator that censoring realtor’s political speech violates Charter

CCF warns B.C. regulator that censoring realtor’s political speech violates Charter

CALGARY – The Canadian Constitution Foundation (CCF) has sent a legal warning letter to a professional regulator in British Columbia after they censored a licensee’s political expression. 

On June 22, 2026, the BC Financial Services Authority (BCFSA) sent Langley realtor Corbin Chivers a caution letter in response to online posts about Indigenous land claims and the closure of Joffre Lakes Provincial Park to non-Indigenous visitors. 

In its letter, the BCFSA called Chivers’ comments “polarizing,” “inflammatory” and “discriminatory,” and cautioned they could bring the real estate industry into disrepute, a warning the CCF says violates his freedom of expression under section 2(b) of the Charter of Rights and Freedoms.

CCF Litigation Director Josh Dehaas and Counsel Alexander Surgenor have written to the BCFSA, demanding removal of the caution letter from Chivers’ file. If it is not removed within 30 days, the CCF will consider further action, including proceedings in the Supreme Court of British Columbia. The letter can be read in full here.

“Canadians do not surrender their freedom of expression when they choose a regulated profession,” said Dehaas. “Professional regulators cannot use their power over someone’s career to restrict political speech that has nothing to do with their work.”

Surgenor said the case has implications for professionals across Canada.

“If Canadians risk their professional standing every time they express a controversial political opinion, many will simply stay silent,” said Surgenor. “Keeping quiet about politics should not be a condition of earning a living.”

The CCF has launched a petition and fundraising campaign to support Chivers’ fight and defend Canadians’ freedom to speak openly about political issues without putting their livelihoods at risk.

Josh Dehaas
Litigation Director (Interim)
Canadian Constitution Foundation
1-888-695-9105 x. 104
[email protected]

Alexander Surgenor
Counsel
Canadian Constitution Foundation
647-258-5652
[email protected]