It is disappointing to see someone in a position of power, entrusted with the responsibility of serving and protecting the rights of Canadians, issuing such a statement that so blatantly disregards the authority of The Charter.

This statement attempts to paint the participants of an anti-lockdown protest that took place in St. Catherines in a negative light by stating that the protest was in opposition to the current Stay-At-Home order.

-Public Health orders are subject to the Charter of Rights and Freedoms as stated in section 7.0.2 of the EMPCA
-The Charter guarantees all citizens the right to peacefully protest, therefore, no regulations were broken.

To our fellow Canadians- Do not allow statements like these deter you from exercising your fundamental rights and freedoms.

To all elected officials- This kind of rhetoric is unconstitutional and we fear it may unnecessarily escalate police response to future peaceful protests.

#RememberYourOath