Hi everyone,

The BC Court of Appeal has dismissed the appeal of my anti-SLAPP application. You can read its reasons online: https://www.canlii.org/en/bc/bcca/doc/2023/2023bcca160/2023bcca160.html

Proctorio’s lawsuit, which has already taken a massive toll on me and my family since it was filed in September 2020, will continue to do so for the time being. It isn’t over, as I had hoped.

I continue to believe the suit against me lacks legal merit. Today’s decision is concerning. The implications for people who express themselves online about matters of public interest are significant: professionals and scholars like me will be less likely to share their expert knowledge, even if it could help protect students and other vulnerable communities, knowing they could face a lawsuit like this from a wealthy corporation in response. The Protection of Public Participation Act hasn’t done its job.

Some of you have been reaching out to me to ask what you can do to support me on this difficult day. What I ask is for you to do what you can to protect students. Academic surveillance technology companies would like nothing more but for us all to shut up. Don’t let them silence you. Don’t let anyone or anything take away your human right to freedom of expression.

While I remain committed to the fight for freedom of expression, I will need time to carefully consider my next step. Thank you all from the bottom of my heart for your ongoing support and help. I will update you when I know what I will be doing next.

Sincerely,

Ian Linkletter