Introduction
The Law Foundation of British Columbia is committed to upholding the principles of equity, fairness, and integrity in all its activities, including the allocation of funding. In line with these values, the Foundation has established the following policy on funding neutrality and freedom of expression.
Policy Statement
The Law Foundation of British Columbia makes funding decisions impartially, based on the merit and potential impact of the proposed projects, connection with the Foundation’s statutory mandate, strategic plan and values, alignment with the Foundation’s granting criteria and conditions, and contribution to access to justice. The Foundation does not make any funding decision in respect of grant recipients based on the particular political, legal, or policy positions that they may take from time to time.
Political Neutrality in Funding Decisions
The Foundation is committed to the support of a diverse range of voices and perspectives within the legal community and beyond. Grant recipients undertake individual and systemic cases, law reform initiatives, education, research, and advocacy on a broad range of issues relevant to the public interest, and in the pursuit of Indigenous law and justice initiatives. The Foundation’s funding decisions reflect its statutory mandate and strategic plan and do not denote support for specific legal and policy positions, cases, or causes that may be supported by grant recipients.
Freedom of Expression
The Foundation recognizes and values the right of its grantees to freely express their political views and engage in legal and political discourse, which is core to grantees’ ability to carry out their work. The Foundation does not seek to control, suppress, or influence the political speech of its grantees. Instead, it champions an environment where open and respectful dialogue can thrive.
Conclusion
The Law Foundation of British Columbia is dedicated to fostering an inclusive and transparent funding process that honours the principles of political neutrality and freedom of expression. This policy reflects our unwavering commitment to supporting the diverse and dynamic legal landscape of British Columbia.