Why is there a difference between the two protests?
We have seen time and time again over the last 11 months, dramatic breaches on Canadian’s Charter right to protest. Numerous anti-lockdown protesters have been ticketed, and some arrested, for simply exercising that very right, as recently as February 13th, 2021 at Queen’s Park in Toronto.
However, on February 14th, 2021, Toronto City Counsellor Kristyn Wong Tam, lead a protest in the east end of Toronto. This group was protesting the destruction of a heritage building, and were (rightly so) left alone by police. They were exercising their right to protest.
On the other hand, when exercising that same protected Charter right, protesting the COVID lockdown measures have been met with hostile encounters with police, including ticketing and arrests.
Why is there a difference between the two protests? Both occurred during the current Stay-At-Home Order and both occurred in the same city.
Is it not the role of police to remain impartial? Why are police deciding what protests should be enforced and which should be left alone? Is this what it means to live in a free and democratic society?
We, at
Police on Guard for Thee, recognize and uphold the guaranteed right to protest for ALL Canadians. Any and ALL protesters should be protected.
0 Comments