We, the undersigned, oppose the use of financial companies like Visa and MasterCard to censor or block payments based on political views. These actions threaten freedom of expression, undermine democratic values, and give disproportionate power to private corporations over public discourse.
We call on Canada and US government and regulators to:
- Investigate and hold accountable financial companies that engage in politically motivated payment blocking.
- Protect freedom of speech by prohibiting companies from restricting access to financial services based on political beliefs.
- Ensure transparency and fairness in corporate policies affecting payments and donations.
- Support alternatives that allow individuals and organizations to operate without fear of arbitrary censorship.
Financial services should be neutral tools, not instruments of political control. Citizens deserve to exercise their rights and beliefs without fear of corporate retaliation.
