Jordan Peterson slams Ottawa ‘journalism under siege’ panel: ‘What a disgrace’

"If they were real journalists, they'd be ashamed to claim under-siege status. What a disgrace," Peterson tweeted. He replied to a piece by True North, which discusses the panel.

Focused on "the role of the media during the siege of Ottawa," the panel will host several legacy media journalists who describe their role and challenges in covering the Freedom Convoy in Ottawa.

Set to take place on March 8, "Journalism Under Siege" is "one of the first public events to reflect on the role of the media during the unprecedented occupation of downtown Ottawa."

The panel will feature legacy-media figures, including CTV News's Glen McGregor and left-wing journalist Justin Ling. The former vocally disliked his experience in Ottawa, as the Freedom Convoy organizers would often not allow him to attend their press conferences. Instead, only independent media was given coverage, while McGregor would be blocked from entering the room.

Other panellists include CBC's Judy Trinh and Jorge Barrera, the Toronto Star's Raisa Patel and photographer Justin Tang. Journalism associate professor and CBC News anchor Adrian Harewood will be moderating the panel.

As pointed out by True North, the panel has garnered controversy for more than just its hyperbole. The entire forum seemingly excludes any right of centre journalists from participating, making the event look more like a partisan event than an academic panel.

Columnist Rupa Subramanya, who contributes to the National Post, The Wall Street Journal, and other outlets, told True North she received a late invitation to join. Subramanya was told her invitation was late due to the hectic timing of the event. The organizers allegedly offered her an apology, but she has not yet agreed to attend the event due to scheduling issues.