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.
About The Democracy Fund:
Founded in 2021, The Democracy Fund (TDF) is a Canadian charity dedicated to constitutional rights, advancing education, and relieving poverty. TDF promotes constitutional rights through litigation and public education and supports an access to justice initiative for Canadians whose civil liberties have been infringed by government lockdowns and other public policy responses to the pandemic.