Adam Blake-Gallipeau

Canadian Lawyer with @TDF_Can. Civil liberties advocate.

[The Democracy Fund @TDF_Can]

TDF Executive Director Mark Joseph speaks with @ezralevant about the launch of an independent investigation into Canada’s wave of unresolved attacks on churches and synagogues.

Learn more about our efforts: https://t.co/aEYKHH4dKe

[The Democracy Fund @TDF_Can]

NEWS RELEASE: TDF successfully defends open court principle

TDF is pleased to report that its lawyers secured assurances from officials that David will be allowed to sketch freely in open court. Police and court security have been reminded and educated that sketch artists are permitted inside the courtroom and that members of the public are entitled to attend open court proceedings.

This affirms the open court principle that helps maintain public confidence in the justice system.

Learn more: https://t.co/0pqOjc7uX9

[The Democracy Fund @TDF_Can]

Canadian group launches independent forensic investigation into widespread church burnings https://t.co/fRDqirLqaB

[Keith Wilson @ikwilson]

I remember studying Voltaire in university and wondering how any civil society could ever have considered constraining free speech to be a good idea. https://t.co/VhFwjWb3Q1

[The Democracy Fund @TDF_Can]

🚨UPDATE: Tamara Lich receives conditional sentence in Freedom Convoy mischief case

Court imposes 18-month conditional sentence on Tamara Lich, with credit for pre-trial custody, following her role in the 2022 peaceful protest.

OTTAWA— Today, Justice Heather Perkins-McVey sentenced Tamara Lich to an 18-month conditional sentence for her conviction of mischief related to the 2022 Freedom Convoy protest in Ottawa. After crediting 74 days of pre-trial custody, the sentence totals approximately 15.5 months, to be served in the community under statutory conditions.

Lich, who has become a symbol of civil liberties and the right to peaceful protest, will report to a supervisor and have her supervision transferred to Alberta. The sentence includes 12 months of house arrest, with exceptions for medical emergencies involving family, travel for employment, legal obligations, medical appointments, and religious services. She is permitted up to five hours per week for necessities of life and may be present for the birth of her grandchild. For the remaining 3.5 months, Lich will be subject to a curfew. Additionally, she must complete 100 hours of community service.

This ruling follows a protracted legal battle, including the longest mischief trial in Canadian history, during which Lich was acquitted of multiple charges but convicted of mischief for her organizational role and for encouraging participants. The Crown had sought a seven-year prison term, highlighting a very concerning contrast between the requested penalty and the community-based sentence imposed.

The Democracy Fund, which has funded Lich’s legal defence through generous donor support, has confirmed its intention to appeal the conviction and sentence to safeguard Canadians' fundamental freedoms.

“This conditional sentence imposes significant restrictions on her liberty for actions that were fundamentally peaceful and aimed at upholding democratic values,” said Mark Joseph, Director of Litigation for The Democracy Fund. “We will continue to fight this case on appeal to ensure that the rights of all Canadians to protest without fear of undue punishment are protected.”

TDF lawyers attended the sentencing hearing and provided live updates. The organization remains committed to defending civil liberties in the face of government overreach.

Donate to Tamara's legal fund here: https://t.co/GQG30PwAVT

[The Democracy Fund @TDF_Can]

1/1 I’m Mark Joseph, litigation director at TDF. I’m at the Ottawa courthouse today for sentencing of Tamara Lich and Chris Barber. Tamara was convicted earlier this year of mischief. Justice Perkins-McVey is expected to rule today after the longest mischief trial in Canadian history. Ms. Lich and Mr. Barber have arrived and we are waiting to enter the court.

[The Democracy Fund @TDF_Can]

🚨UPDATE: TDF secures legal victory for Amish client in Quarantine Act challenge

The Democracy Fund secures a legal victory for an Amish client in Quarantine Act Challenge.

TORONTO— The Democracy Fund has achieved another significant win in its ongoing efforts to defend members of the Amish community facing convictions under the Quarantine Act. The convictions arose from tickets received by the Amish upon crossing the border during the COVID-19 pandemic: Crown prosecutors alleged that the Amish failed to provide information required by the ArriveCan app.

On September 25, 2025, the Niagara Provincial Court issued a suspended sentence with no fine ($0) for an Amish client whose conviction was previously overturned and reopened by TDF lawyers. The outcome ensures that a member of the Amish community is spared undue hardship caused by financial penalties and credit problems.

As previously announced, TDF filed reopening applications in Niagara Provincial Court on behalf of two Amish clients. The court granted the application for one client, overturning their conviction and scheduling a new trial, while denying the second application.

The clients, originally from an Ontario Amish community and now residing in the United States following marriage, were charged with non-compliance with COVID-19 regulations and failure to complete the ArriveCan app. These requirements posed significant challenges for the Amish, whose religious beliefs prohibit the use of modern technology. Many of TDF’s Amish clients face substantial fines and property liens, threatening their farms and traditional way of life. TDF remains unwavering in its commitment to safeguarding their homes and livelihoods.

TDF Senior Litigation Counsel, Adam Blake-Gallipeau, stated: “Obviously, the Amish have limited access to modern technology and live a Biblically-based lifestyle: this outcome upholds their religious freedoms. We're pleased with the result since it ensures that our client is no longer threatened with the destruction of his credit rating and financial penalties."

TDF proudly represents over 30 Amish clients across Ontario, advocating tirelessly for fair treatment under the law for these peaceful communities.

Read the full update and donate to the Amish legal fund here: https://t.co/u7Nvq6nOYy

[The Democracy Fund @TDF_Can]

🚨TDF defends Charter auditor facing charges in Toronto

The Democracy Fund defends Chad Briand, a Charter auditor, criminally charged after filming outside a police station.

TORONTO— The Democracy Fund (TDF) has taken up the defence of Chad Briand, a Toronto resident and Charter auditor, who faces ongoing criminal charges after filming outside a police station in February 2025.

Briand was peacefully recording on public property when he was approached by officers, questioned, and subsequently arrested. He was detained and charged with obstructing a peace officer under Section 129 of the Criminal Code. In July 2025, he was charged again with criminal harassment under Section 264 for an alleged social media post regarding the arresting officer.

Video footage of the incident, which has attracted public attention, can be viewed via the following link:

https://t.co/BMURhnSThi

Seeking legal support, Briand contacted TDF. On August 18, 2025, TDF lawyers appeared in court and were noted as counsel of record. The charges against Briand remain ongoing, with TDF preparing to conduct a Crown pretrial in due course to defend his rights.

Adam Blake-Gallipeau, Senior Litigation Counsel at TDF, commented, “Filming in public, without engaging in unlawful activity, is not a crime. We are committed to defending Mr. Briand’s Charter-protected rights and ensuring fair treatment under the law.”

Briand expressed gratitude, stating, “I’m thankful for TDF’s support as I fight these charges and stand up for my rights.”

Read the full update and donate to our legal fund here: https://t.co/HM3jBUyolL

[The Democracy Fund @TDF_Can]

UPDATE: 🚨 Montreal church fined for worship service; TDF takes on legal defence

The Democracy Fund defends Ministerios Restauracion after police and protesters attempt to shut down Christian service attended by U.S. artist Sean Feucht.

Montreal — The Democracy Fund has stepped in to represent Ministerios Restauración/Église MR - the Montreal church at which US-based artist Sean Feucht worshipped on July 25, 2025.

Ministerios Restauracion Church was issued a ticket with a fine in the amount of $2,500 for engaging in Christian worship at a Friday service. Video shows police entering the Church before or during the worship service. Later, protesters attempted to forcefully shut it down.

Feucht, a Christian musician and activist known for leading large outdoor worship events across the U.S., was in Montreal as part of a Canadian visit. His presence drew criticism from local activist groups. Officials accused the Church of violating municipal bylaws related to event permits or zoning. However, no such regulations prohibit regular worship gatherings.

TDF litigation director, Mark Joseph, said: "Freedom of religion is a fundamental freedom under s.2(a) of the Charter: you do not need permission or a permit from the government to worship at a church in Canada. It is absurd to suggest otherwise, and it risks setting a dangerous precedent that will extend to all religions. TDF and its lawyers intend to fight this matter and are eager to respond to this obvious Charter infringement in court."

During the COVID-19 pandemic, TDF represented many churches and pastors facing restrictions on worship. Legal fees are expected to be sizable in this case, but TDF is committed to supporting religious freedom for all Canadians. We will need your help to defend the Ministerios Restauración Church: please consider making a charitable donation to TDF.

DONATE NOW: https://t.co/dqQGEVeScb

[The Democracy Fund @TDF_Can]

UPDATE: 🚨Crown seeks jail time for Tamara Lich

Crown prosecutors are seeking jail time for Tamara Lich and co-accused, Chris Barber.

OTTAWA – Tamara Lich is back in court on Wednesday for sentencing submissions after her conviction for mischief. The mischief conviction arose from her participation in the 2022 Ottawa Freedom Convoy and comes after a 45-day trial - the longest in Canadian history for this type of charge. Crown prosecutors are seeking a seven year jail sentence for Lich and an eight year jail sentence for Lich's co-accused, Chris Barber. The Crown is also seeking to confiscate Barber's truck, "Big Red."

Although prosecutors initially charged Lich with six offences, she was only found guilty of two - mischief and counselling mischief. The prosecutor subsequently dropped the charge of counselling mischief after the mischief conviction. Justice Perkins-McVey will now consider the appropriate sentence for the sole mischief conviction after hearing submissions from counsel for Lich, Lawrence Greenspon and Eric Granger.

TDF litigation director, Mark Joseph, will be live-tweeting the hearing all week.

TDF has funded the defence of Tamara Lich and will continue to do so should the sentence be appealed.

Donate to Tamara's legal fund here: https://t.co/7uRwLzWCNi

[The Democracy Fund @TDF_Can]

UPDATE: 🚨 TDF reopens tickets for one Amish client but second client denied reopening

The Democracy Fund secures partial victory in Quarantine Act challenges for Amish clients.

TORONTO — The Democracy Fund lawyers have achieved a partial victory in their efforts to challenge convictions related to alleged violations of the Quarantine Act by members of the Amish community. TDF previously filed reopening applications and supporting affidavits in Niagara Provincial Court on behalf of two Amish clients. The court accepted the application for one client, overturning their conviction pending a new trial, while the application for the second client was denied. TDF is preparing to appeal the denied application and is readying for the upcoming court appearances for the successful applicant.

The two Amish clients, originally from an Ontario Amish community and now residing in the United States after marriage, faced convictions for alleged non-compliance with the Quarantine Act during the COVID-19 pandemic. Many of TDF's Amish clients were accused of failing to complete the ArriveCan app or comply with the constantly changing COVID-19 regulations. The ArriveCan app requirement and regulatory compliance posed significant challenges for the Amish, whose religious convictions preclude the use of modern technology. Many Amish individuals face substantial fines and property liens, threatening their farms and traditional way of life. TDF is committed to preventing the loss of their homes and livelihoods.

TDF Senior Litigation Counsel, Adam Blake-Gallipeau, stated: "The partial success in overturning one conviction is a step toward justice for the Amish community, who live peacefully according to their faith. However, the denial of the second application is both disappointing and confusing. We will appeal that decision while preparing for a new trial in the successful reopening application."

TDF currently represents over 30 Amish clients across Ontario. The organization continues its fight to ensure fair treatment for these individuals.

Read the full update and donate to the Amish legal fund here:
https://t.co/bOcK1lg6K1

[The Democracy Fund @TDF_Can]

🚨UPDATE: TDF sounds alarm on privacy erosion in Strong Border Act (Bill C-2)

Proposed government surveillance powers threaten privacy rights.

TORONTO: The Democracy Fund (TDF) is raising significant concerns about intrusive surveillance provisions embedded in the federal government’s proposed Strong Border Act (Bill C-2), introduced on June 3, 2025. While presented as a measure to enhance border security, the bill includes “lawful access” powers that could undermine privacy rights and civil liberties.

There are three main areas of concern.

1) Warrantless access to internet usage information
Bill C-2 permits law enforcement agencies to demand and receive certain information from internet service providers about Canadians - such as whether a provider has supplied service to a surveillance target - without a warrant. The Bill requires only that law enforcement certify that they have a "reasonable suspicion" that an offence has been or will be committed under any Act of Parliament. This broad scope means that surveillance may be conducted on Canadian citizens for even non-criminal offences. The Supreme Court of Canada has previously ruled that attempts by the police to obtain subscriber information from internet service providers are unconstitutional.

2) Compelling disclosure by foreign electronic service providers
Even when a warrant is required, the Bill grants law enforcement the authority to compel foreign electronic service providers to disclose extensive user data, such as transmission or subscriber information, based solely on a “reasonable suspicion.” In exigent circumstances, this warrant requirement can be bypassed if obtaining a warrant is deemed "impracticable." This raises serious concerns about cross-border data privacy, potential overreach, and conflicts with foreign legal frameworks.

3) Obligations on electronic service providers
Finally, the Bill imposes obligations on a broad range of electronic service providers to allow officials access to their systems for "testing." Certain defined core providers will also be required to develop capabilities for extracting and organizing data. Additionally, providers would be prohibited from disclosing this access, keeping it secret and limiting transparency.

Section 8 of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms protects against unreasonable search and seizure: TDF lawyers warn that the Bill could undermine this fundamental right. If passed, the Bill will set a dangerous precedent for warrantless digital surveillance, impacting journalists, activists, dissenters, and ordinary citizens alike.

Mark Joseph, TDF Litigation Director, stated, “We are deeply troubled by the government’s attempt to embed warrantless surveillance measures within a border security bill, measures previously rejected by Parliament and the Supreme Court. Public safety should not be used as a pretext to infringe constitutional rights. We urge Parliament to remove these provisions from Bill C-2 and conduct a thorough, transparent review to ensure compliance with Charter-protected privacy rights and civil liberties generally.”

Read the full update and donate to our legal fund here:
https://t.co/0BfBsu9WEu

[The Democracy Fund @TDF_Can]

🚨UPDATE: TDF secures new victory for Amish: over $38,000 in fines waived

TDF secures new victory for Amish facing ArriveCan-related tickets: more than $38,000 in fines waived.

NIAGARA FALLS, ON: The Democracy Fund (TDF) has achieved a significant legal victory for a group of Amish individuals convicted under the Quarantine Act for failure to complete the ArriveCan app. Following a May 22, 2025 court appearance, seven months of negotiations and numerous court appearances, TDF lawyers successfully had the group’s convictions set aside, resulting in over $38,000 in fines being waived.

The Amish community, known for their traditional lifestyle and faith-based avoidance of modern technology, faced legal challenges after crossing the border at Niagara Falls. Their inability to use smartphones or interact with modern technology made it almost impossible to comply with the strict and continually-shifting COVID-19 regulations, particularly requirements involving the ArriveCan app. TDF took the position that the Amish did not receive proper notice of the offences, trial or conviction. They were convicted in absentia, and subsequently fined over $38,000. However, with the assistance of TDF, their cases were reopened, and through persistent advocacy, the convictions were ultimately set aside with fines being waived.

For these Amish families, who depend on farming and community support, the prospect of paying such excessive fines was daunting. This resolution ensures that these legal entanglements do not threaten their livelihoods and properties.

TDF Litigation Director Mark Joseph stated, “This outcome is a testament to the importance of access to justice for all Canadians, regardless of their background or way of life. We are pleased that these families can now move forward without the burden of these oppressive fines. The Amish are extremely grateful for the support they've received from TDF donors.”

While this case has been resolved, TDF continues to advocate for other members of the Amish community and other Canadians facing similar challenges with the legal system. The organization remains committed to defending constitutional rights and ensuring that all individuals receive fair treatment.

Make a donation to the Amish legal fund here: https://t.co/N2ZfqtFaj5

[The Democracy Fund @TDF_Can]

🚨UPDATE: TDF assists Amish in repairing credit ratings

The Democracy Fund is assisting an Ontario Amish community with credit ratings due to COVID-era fines.

ONTARIO: During the COVID-19 pandemic, members of the Amish community were ticketed for allegedly failing to complete the ArriveCan app. Fines for each ticket were approximately $6,000, with many families receiving multiple tickets. Given their traditional religious lifestyle, which eschews modern amenities and relies on horse-drawn travel, the Amish faced significant obstacles in complying with onerous and confusing pandemic-related regulations. As a result, many were convicted without proper notice or fair trial. Fortunately, TDF lawyers intervened and successfully had many of these convictions set aside.

Despite these legal victories, affected Amish families continue to face challenges, including lingering liens, damaged credit ratings, and difficulties obtaining loans essential for maintaining their farms. TDF has now taken further action, securing court documents that certify no fines remain unpaid and no debts are owed to the government. Armed with these documents, TDF is working to help the Amish access the capital needed to sustain their farms and support their families.

The work continues, as TDF is committed to advocating for the Amish community, ensuring their rights are protected and their livelihoods restored.

“TDF will continue to advocate for the Amish against the severe and lasting financial harm inflicted by these tickets so that these families can maintain their traditional way of life,” said Adam Blake-Gallipeau, Senior Litigator at The Democracy Fund.

DONATE TO THE AMISH LEGAL FUND HERE:
https://t.co/IICgnv0obV

[The Democracy Fund @TDF_Can]

📷UPDATE: TDF aids Amish community in fallout from liens registered against farm properties

Members of the Amish community have overcome financial barriers with legal support from The Democracy Fund.

ONTARIO: Members of an Ontario Amish community, previously burdened by nearly $300,000 in fines for alleged non-compliance with the government-mandated ArriveCAN app during the COVID-19 pandemic, are now receiving further critical legal relief thanks to the efforts of The Democracy Fund (TDF). As a result of convictions from these ArriveCAN tickets, liens were often placed by the government on Amish farms, damaging credit ratings and crippling the ability of Amish community members to secure loans for essential farm equipment; their primary means of income and sustenance. Although TDF has managed to have many of these tickets stayed, some liens remained on Amish farm properties.

TDF lawyers have now successfully assisted two community members in navigating the complex lien-lifting process, enabling them to transfer property and secure loans for vital farm equipment and supplies. This legal support has been a lifeline for the community, helping to preserve their livelihoods and protect their religious freedoms.

Living an 18th-century lifestyle without electricity or modern amenities, the Amish were unable to use the ArriveCAN app. As a result, they often incurred harsh penalties and threats to their self-sufficient way of life. Property liens prevented community members from obtaining loans, hindering their ability to maintain farms and support their families.

“The Democracy Fund is committed to defending the rights of the Amish community,” said Mark Joseph, Litigation Director at TDF. “By helping lift these liens, we are ensuring that this vulnerable community can continue to thrive and sustain their traditional way of life.”

TDF continues to represent over two dozen Amish community members in their fight against these punitive measures. The organization is calling for public support to help fund ongoing legal efforts to protect the community’s rights and livelihood.

You can donate to the Amish legal fund here: https://t.co/mRivTExP7W

[The Democracy Fund @TDF_Can]

📷UPDATE: TDF secures stay of charges in Coutts protest case

The Democracy Fund successfully defends Ursula Allred, securing a stay of all charges and the return of her property after over three years.

CALGARY: The Democracy Fund (TDF) is pleased to announce significant developments in the defence of Ursula Allred, one of the last individuals facing charges from the 2022 Coutts Freedom Convoy protest.

Following the submission of a Jordan Application by TDF lawyers, extensive negotiations, and preparations for a two-week trial, TDF lawyers have successfully secured a stay of all charges against Ms. Allred. Additionally, after 37 months, TDF lawyers have secured the return of Ms. Allred’s cell phone, which had been seized by police in early 2022 and held throughout the legal process.

Ms. Allred, a young mother, was charged with mischief and other charges in connection with her presence near the Coutts border protest site in early 2022. These charges came in the wake of widespread demonstrations advocating for the restoration of civil liberties during pandemic-related mandates.

TDF’s senior litigation counsel, Adam Blake-Gallipeau, commented on the outcome:

“Securing a stay of Ms. Allred’s charges and the return of her phone after 37 months is a significant victory for justice,” he said. “We will continue to vigorously defend the constitutional freedoms of Canadians prosecuted for peaceful protest.”

Reflecting on the result, Ms. Allred expressed her relief and gratitude, “I am incredibly relieved to have this weight lifted. I’m deeply thankful to The Democracy Fund and their legal team for their tireless work in defending me and protecting my rights.”

This case is the latest in TDF’s ongoing work defending Canadians charged during the Freedom Convoy protests. To date, TDF has represented over 30 individuals for offences arising from their peaceful assembly and free expression, rights guaranteed under the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms.

The Democracy Fund remains dedicated to defending individuals facing legal repercussions for exercising their constitutional freedoms and will continue to advocate for justice in similar cases.

Read the full update and make a donation to our legal fund here: https://t.co/85lYy1QMET

[The Democracy Fund @TDF_Can]

🚨 UPDATE: Tamara Lich found guilty in Freedom Convoy case

OTTAWA: In a landmark decision with profound implications for civil liberties in Canada, Tamara Lich was just found guilty of mischief, both as a principal offender as well as an aider and abettor. Presiding Justice Perkins-McVey found that Ms. Lich was guilty beyond a reasonable doubt due to her encouragement of others to join the protest, fundraising, organizing and her statements including "we will hold the line" - which was was found to be a "rallying cry" to the truckers. Justice Perkins-McVey will continue to render the remainder of her decision on the outstanding charges this afternoon when court resumes.

This story is currently developing. TDF will continue to update this page as the final judgment is rendered.

Donate to Tamara's legal fund here: https://t.co/jRdJv1XLNH

[The Democracy Fund @TDF_Can]

/18 Mischief is proven beyond a reasonable doubt here. Both Lich and Barber are guilty of mischief.
We are adjoined until 2:10

[The Democracy Fund @TDF_Can]

/17 The Court notes that Barber gave enthusiastic responses to some blocked streets after this date: he is counseling people to come down to block streets at this time.
Barber says “let that horn go” when mass police approach. Barber threatens to replace arrested truckers with others: this is counseling people to join protest and block.
The Court notes the tone and context of Barber’s TikToks: he is not a mere bystander. Both Lich and Barber were in leadership roles. Lich was a spokesperson and “face” of the convoy.
Barber was involved in slow rolls - he calls it train wrecking of roads.
There are a few examples of Lich and Barber in the crowd surrounded by vehicles. Lich says “keep getting the word out” smiling with Barber in front of his truck (blocking the road). Lich is filmed on February 10 pointing to blocking vehicles and encouraging fundraising: she makes it clear that the purpose of the funds is to keep the protest going. Lich says “we are not afraid” and that “our mission is clear” and “stay until the mandates are ended,” “we will hold the line” - which was a message directed to the truckers. She later tells people to “come to Ottawa” and “stay strong.” She tells them to “keep fighting the good fight.”
The Court notes that Lich and Barber encouraged others to join them. “Hold the line” was a rallying cry to stay on the streets - it indicates joint conduct. Lich was right there at the scene. She was aware of the blockade and public disruption when the letter from the mayors office was sent to her.
She responded that it was not their intent to disrupt the city: she said she made a plan to reduce disruption. She was aware that the protest was causing distress: she was standing shoulder to shoulder and was the voice of the protest. Lich and Barber were leaders and protesters: Lich was an aider and abetter by fundraising and encouragement by her presence.
The fact that Lich & Barber worked to reduce the protest is mitigating of the mischief.
There is an absence of evidence about the honest belief of each accused about a color of right.
Mischief by Lich & Barber is found, additionally as an aider and abetter.

[The Democracy Fund @TDF_Can]

We are resumed with zoom set up. Justice Perkins-McVey reminds people that she will not read the entire judgment, particularly her decision on the Carter application. She has dismissed the Carter application.