On February 18th, 2022, after several weeks of peaceful protests, Canadians witnessed the total and absolute erosion of their faith in the police and their democratically elected officials.

Thousands of police officers were called to Ottawa. Horses trampled protesters, tear gas was deployed, gun point arrests occurred, and excessive force was used.

Video and images of these events have now been seen by people around the world. Civil rights leaders and the international community have condemned the use of the Emergency Act.

The Emergency Act itself recognized that it is subject to the Charter and that it does not override the right to peaceful assembly. Police blockades and traffic points have prevented citizens from attending Ottawa to continue their lawful protest. What we are now seeing is the Canadian resolve as peaceful protests are continuing across the country.

Government officials have called the blockade of downtown Ottawa illegal and unlawful. Police services and municipal governments have worked with protesters for years in providing police resources to ensure that they are able to exercise this right. Where was the dialogue between the government and the organizers? We have seen freedom rallies, and other protests, across this country with police escorts and road closures. How was there no better way than this unprecedented abuse on civil liberties?

Police on Guard does not support any unlawful action within a protest and has previously stated that police authority would have existed to remove any vehicles blocking downtown Ottawa. That being said Canadians have the right to peacefully assemble and have their voices heard. We stand with all Canadians who want to live in a free and democratic society.

Please click here to read the statement by the Justice Centre for Constitutional Freedoms as it echoes our sentiments on the use of the Emergency Act.