A sizable group of nearly 2,000 individuals marched through the heart of Toronto on Saturday afternoon, joining nationwide protests urging the newly elected Liberal government to prioritize climate action, Indigenous rights, migrant issues, and workers’ rights in the upcoming budget. Participants expressed concerns about Prime Minister Mark Carney’s endorsement of new fossil fuel ventures, possible cuts to public services, and a range of other topics including Indigenous rights and anti-war activism.
Organizers highlighted the government’s promotion of environmentally harmful pipelines, continued support for military endeavors, and the treatment of migrants in a press release. Syed Hussan, a spokesperson for the Migrants Rights Network and organizer of the event, emphasized the need for united action in the face of global climate challenges and escalating conflicts due to excessive armament buildup worldwide.
The protest, orchestrated by a coalition of 14 partner organizations advocating for various causes such as economic justice, climate justice, and Indigenous rights, was part of a series of planned demonstrations across Canada and globally in cities like Ottawa, Montreal, and Vancouver. Key issues of contention included proposed federal spending cuts alongside increased military allocations by the new government.
Demonstrators also criticized Carney’s support for expediting a liquefied natural gas project and appointing a former Trans Mountain pipeline CEO to lead a major projects office. Environmentalist David Suzuki, present at the rally, voiced concerns about prioritizing economic interests over long-term environmental sustainability in the face of a climate crisis.
Furthermore, the rally saw opposition to Bill C-5, aimed at expediting project approvals and bolstering the domestic economy, amid fears of infringing on Indigenous rights and environmental safeguards. The protesters also condemned Bill C-2, labeling it as “anti-immigrant” due to its implications for personal privacy, immigration processes, and border security.
The issue of Palestinian solidarity was prominently featured at the event, with calls for Canada to impose a complete arms embargo on Israel. The rally in Ottawa, which drew significant crowds near Parliament Hill, underscored the interconnectedness of social justice, economic justice, climate justice, and other related causes. Protesters left a symbolic mural outside Carney’s office, leading to arrests for mischief and police intervention.
Overall, the demonstrations reflected a unified demand for substantial policy shifts towards environmental protection, social justice, and human rights in the face of pressing global challenges.