Closing arguments made in case about limiting free speech

CALGARY (CP) - Closing arguments were made before an Alberta human rights tribunal Friday into a complaint about a letter published in a newspaper that suggested homosexuals are as immoral as pedophiles and drug dealers.

The letter by former pastor Stephen Boissoin was published five years ago in the Red Deer Advocate.

University of Calgary professor Darren Lund complained that it exposed homosexuals to hatred and contempt.

In his closing statement, Lund suggested the letter was clearly an expression of hatred and contempt for homosexuals.

However, another University of Calgary professor, Barry Cooper, testified that Boissoin's opinions did not constitute hate speech, even though they may have been crude and offensive.

Lawyers for Boissoin have argued that a ruling in Lund's favour would hinder his freedom of expression and religion, as well as freedom of the press.

The Alberta Human Rights Commission now has 60 days to decide whether the letter incited hatred, or was merely intended to spawn political debate.