525. The War on Speech—and Those Who Dare to Fight It | Ezra Levant
Feb 27, 2025
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Ezra Levant, a Canadian human rights activist and founder of Rebel News, shares insights on pressing issues in media freedom and censorship. He discusses his firsthand experience with the World Economic Forum and the authoritarian trends in the UK. Levant highlights the wrongful imprisonment of Tommy Robinson and debates the rise of censorship, especially in academic settings. He critiques the disconnect between elite advocacy at events like Davos and public sentiment, emphasizing the importance of independent journalism in these turbulent times.
Ezra Levant emphasizes the role of Rebel News in providing alternative media perspectives amidst rising censorship and political tension.
The podcast discusses Tommy Robinson's imprisonment as a case highlighting the broader implications for free speech and dissent in democratic societies.
Levant reflects on the transformation of the media landscape, focusing on the challenges independent outlets face against mainstream corporate media.
Concerns are raised about the influence of the World Economic Forum on policy-making, potentially undermining national interests and individual freedoms.
Deep dives
The Struggles of Tommy Robinson
Tommy Robinson, a journalist and political prisoner in the UK, is currently in solitary confinement for distributing a controversial film. His isolation has been a tactic by the government, contributing to his mental and physical deterioration. Despite the gag order that was intended to suppress the documentary's visibility, it became widely viewed, illustrating the government's struggle to control the narrative. Robinson's case raises significant questions about free speech and the treatment of dissenting voices in democratic societies.
Ezra Levant and Rebel News' Journey
Ezra Levant, the founder of Rebel News, shares insights about the platform's role in modern journalism and the shift from traditional media to independent outlets. He recalls how Rebel News was originally founded as a response to perceived media biases, particularly surrounding issues like freedom of speech and government accountability. Levant highlights the significance of alternative media in promoting diverse viewpoints, especially during contentious political times. The platform has continually supported journalists and dissenters, despite facing challenges from mainstream media and regulatory bodies.
The Evolution of the Media Landscape
The podcast discusses the transformation of the media landscape, particularly the shift toward independent and social media platforms. Levant notes how traditional media has been increasingly reliant on government funding, which influences their narratives and reporting. The discussion highlights the challenges faced by alternative media in garnering visibility and audience engagement, often hindered by algorithms and censorship from major platforms. The rise of platforms like Rumble and X (formerly Twitter) offers new opportunities for independent voices to reach audiences without constraints.
The Political Landscape in Canada and the UK
The political climates in Canada and the UK are portrayed as increasingly alarming, with leaders like Mark Carney emerging as potential threats to traditional values and individual freedoms. There is concern that Carney, as an influential figure associated with the World Economic Forum, may promote policies that prioritize globalist agendas over national interests. The conversation touches on how both nations are grappling with issues like mass immigration and the erosion of national identity. The potential for future unrest and dissatisfaction among the working class is tangible, as many feel their voices are being disregarded.
The World Economic Forum's Influence
The World Economic Forum (WEF) is depicted as an elite gathering that exerts significant influence over global policies without accountability or transparency. Participants at the WEF, lack a democratic mandate, and many decisions made there are seen as unchallenged by the public or press. The notion of stakeholder capitalism and ESG initiatives promoted by the WEF reflects a push for policies favoring corporate interests under the guise of environmental and social responsibility. This dynamic raises important questions about governance, corporate power, and the future direction of individual freedoms.
Censorship and Freedom of Speech
The podcast addresses the theme of censorship, illustrating how alternative voices often face suppression, particularly during crises or political unrest. Levant recounts personal experiences and those of colleagues at Rebel News, who have been subjected to various forms of censorship and repression. An example highlighted is the treatment of dissenters during the pandemic, where questioning government narratives often led to professional repercussions. The importance of maintaining a robust public discourse, free from governmental interference, is stressed as essential for democracy.
The Future of Canada Under New Leadership
With Mark Carney potentially taking the reins of the Liberal Party, concerns arise about the trajectory of Canadian governance. Carney's alignment with WEF principles poses a threat to traditional Canadian values and may lead to increased regulation and control over everyday life. The discussion suggests that there may be a substantial shift in domestic policies that could further alienate everyday Canadians. As the political landscape shifts, the balance between preserving Canadian identity and accommodating globalist trends will be critical in shaping the future.
Support Tommy Robinson’s Give Send Go: https://www.givesendgo.com/Tommy-Robinsons-children
Jordan Peterson sits down with human rights activist, political writer, and founder of Rebel News, Ezra Levant. They discuss Ezra’s first hand experience with the World Economic Forum, the antithetical turn toward authoritarianism in the United Kingdom, and Tommy Robinson’s ongoing and wrongful imprisonment. #FreeTommyRobinson
Ezra Levant is a Canadian human rights activist, political writer, and father, Ezra Levant is the host of the Ezra Levant show and founder of Rebel News – the largest online independent news network in Canada. Ezra’s great grandfather emigrated to Canada in 1903 from Russia, establishing a homestead near Drumheller, Alberta. Ezra spent his early life growing up in a suburb of Calgary, where he attended a Jewish day school before making the switch to public school.
This episode was filmed on February 8th, 2025.
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