The debate revolved around the idea of academic freedom and where the lines should be drawn when it comes to freedom of expression. “I think it depends on the students and the teachers,” says Nadeau-Dubois. “I think all ideas are allowed to be said, allowed to be discussed; books should be read and discussed.” When asked by TVA coordinator Pierre Bruneau if certain books should be banned, St-Pierre Plamondon states that freedom of speech, art and expression are fundamental parts of democracy and people should not be offended because they have different opinions. Nadeau-Dubois responds by saying he agrees, noting that as a society, we should be able to debate such ideas — and accept constructive criticism of our values. “This is all part of academic freedom,” he adds before Bruno interrupts to ask if he was prepared to name such examples of controversial academic works — “Pierre Vallier’s book, for example.” Pierre Vallières, journalist and author from Quebec, is famous as an intellectual leader of the Front de liberation du Québec, who wrote a book entitled N—– blancs d’Amérique (White n—– of America). “It’s not about banning words or banning books,” Nadeau-Dubois replies. “It’s normal to have discussions because society changes and attitudes evolve.” Once again, the QS representative is cut off, this time by St-Pierre Plamondon, who presses him to name his book Vallières. “Are you able to state the title of this book?” he asks. “Of course,” replies Nadeau-Dubois, referring to the book’s full title. He then pondered whether the PQ leader was attacking him personally before attempting to turn the conversation to the shortage of teachers in schools. The argument is cut off when time runs out on the topic.
