Episode 135: Judge finds Waterloo can't shut down homeless encampment. Plus, Alberta votes.

Episode 135: Judge finds Waterloo can't shut down homeless encampment. Plus, Alberta votes.

From Not Reserving Judgment by Canadian Constitution Foundation

May 27, 2026 · 32 min

About this episode

The episode discusses a ruling that prevents Waterloo Region from dismantling a homeless encampment and touches on Alberta's upcoming referendum.

In Episode 135, we take a deep dive into an decision that says Waterloo Region can't tear down a homeless encampment to build a transit hub because that would violate the rights to life, liberty, security of the person and equality. Plus, Alberta to hold a referendum on a referendum. Stories and cases discussed in this week's episode: Premier Doug Ford could use notwithstanding clause on Waterloo Region’s encampment ruling (CTV News) Dear Albertans, here’s what you need to know about the Clarity Act (National Post) Belgian court convicts nationalist activist for lecture that would be protected in the US (Brussels Signal) Stratford's 'Strong Mayors' challenge hinges on three main arguments (Stratford Beacon Herald) Not Reserving Judgment is a podcast about Canadian constitutional law hosted by Josh Dehaas, Joanna Baron, and Christine Van Geyn, with help from Alexander Surgenor. The show is brought to you by the Canadian Constitution Foundation, a non-partisan legal charity dedicated to defending rights and freedoms. To support our work, visit theccf.ca/donate.

People in this episode

Hosts: Josh Dehaas, Joanna Baron, Christine Van Geyn

Topics covered

  • homelessness
  • constitutional rights
  • politics
  • referendum
  • legal decisions

Keywords

  • Waterloo Region
  • homeless encampment
  • Doug Ford
  • Alberta referendum
  • Clarity Act
  • constitutional law
  • rights and freedoms

Sponsors

Canadian Constitution Foundation

Mentioned in this episode

Books & works: CTV News, National Post, Brussels Signal, Stratford Beacon Herald

Places: Waterloo Region, Alberta

More episodes of Not Reserving Judgment

Explore listener stats, chart rankings, contacts and more on the Not Reserving Judgment podcast page.