É«É«À² police say they will be on hand Saturday to monitor a rally against Canadian immigration policies as well as counter-demonstrations planned for the same time at Christie Pits Park.
The “Canada First Rally” drew headlines and condemnation when it was first announced last month. Organizers say they are looking for “true Canadian patriots” who “can’t stand what is happening to our beautiful country” to advocate against immigration and undocumented workers.
They are expected at the park at 1 p.m.
Dianne Saxe, city councillor for Ward 11 which includes the park, has denounced the event.
ARTICLE CONTINUES BELOW
Others quickly drew up plans for counter rallies; several under different names are now planned set to start an hour earlier at noon.Â
“Christie Pits is for the people, not for racists,” organizers of the “Bring everyone you know and let’s make it clear: there is no space for hate at Christie Pits Park.”
Police say they are aware of both events and that they will be there to “monitor and ensure public safety.”
“We expect everyone in attendance to follow police instructions. Police will take appropriate action against any concerns or criminal behavior that may arise,”
Saxe said she was “deeply disturbed” by the rally and that many of her constituents had written letters expressing their concern.
“I am also appalled at the absurdity of these individuals choosing to do so in Christie Pits Park, with its history of standing against hate,”
She added that the counter-protests show that the “spirit of opposition to nativism, jingoism and racism remains a vibrant part of our ward.”
Kristjan Lautens is a staff reporter, working out of the Star’s
radio room in É«É«À². Reach him via email: klautens@thestar.ca
To join the conversation set a first and last name in your user profile.
Sign in or register for free to join the Conversation