Denial of Evidence in the Information Age
Wednesday, May 27, André Picard
In an era defined by unprecedented access to information, the denial and distortion of evidence has become a growing threat to public discourse, scientific progress, and social cohesion. Despite robust data and rigorous evaluation methods, well-established facts are increasingly challenged—often shaped by political influence, funding pressures, and attempts to control narratives. Evaluators now face demands that compromise independence, from restricted language and scope to intrusive access to personal and unrelated project data. This session explores how evaluators can uphold rigor, ethics, and CES competencies while presenting honest evidence that may challenge authority or the status quo. Where is the light at the end of the tunnel—and how do we ensure it isn’t an oncoming train?
André Picard is one of Canada’s top health and public policy observers and commentators. He has been a part of The Globe and Mail team since 1987, where he is a health reporter and columnist. He is also the author of six bestselling books.
André is an eight-time nominee for the National Newspaper Awards, Canada’s top journalism prize, where he has twice been named the country’s top newspaper columnist. He is past winner of the prestigious Michener Award for Meritorious Public Service Journalism, and the Centennial Prize of the Pan-American Health Organization, awarded to the top health reporter in the 17 countries of the Americas.
André’s work has been recognized by a number of health advocacy groups. He was named Canada’s first “Public Health Hero” by the Canadian Public Health Association and a “Champion of Mental Health” by the Canadian Alliance on Mental Illness and Mental Health. He received the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal for his dedication to improving healthcare.
In 2023, André was appointed to the Order of Canada for his lifelong dedication to advancing public health understanding and practices within the nation.
A graduate of the University of Ottawa and Carleton University, André has received honorary doctorates from eight universities, including UBC and the University of Toronto.
He is a seasoned communicator who employs a conversational style to reach his audience. Additionally, he enlivens his research and commentary with personal stories to provide context for his audience. Fluently bilingual, André will enlighten and pique a sense of curiosity of audience members from all educational backgrounds. Behind the placid exterior lies an inquisitive, perceptive and industrious scribe for whom the work only begins with the official story.
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