College defends Independence Tour booking as adhering to freedom of expression

By MEDICINE HAT NEWS on February 12, 2026.

newsdesk@medicinehatnews.com

Medicine Hat College issued a statement Wednesday in response to public outcry about the campus hosting the upcoming Alberta Independence Tour.

The college has launched a webpage offering comment on the backlash surrounding the Rebel News-hosted event and answers to a number of questions about the facility booking process.

“Medicine Hat College welcomes a wide range of people, ideas and events. Sometimes that includes groups we may not personally agree with,” opens the statement.

The statement goes on to add that the college does not restrict events based on viewpoint. The standard booking procedure allows any member of the public to rent college facilities if they meet the requirements of the rental agreement and obtain event insurance.

“The college recognizes that this event has caused frustration, disappointment and anger for some members of the community. When issues affect students, staff or community members, the college has a responsibility to listen and to respond with care.”

However, the statement confirms the college will allow the booking to proceed.

“Allowing an event to proceed under established policies does not signal endorsement; rather, it reflects the college’s responsibility as a public institution to apply its policies fairly and consistently.”

The college says freedom of expression is a foundation principle in post-secondary education, which the institution is committed to upholding.

Officials also responded to the fact that other organizations have chosen to cancel this event. The college says as private businesses, those venues do not have the same obligations regarding freedom of expression as those the college is subject to.

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