Canadian Muslim Lawyers Association (CMLA) Statement on Police Brutality in Alberta Against Student Protestors

The Canadian Muslim Lawyers Association (“CMLA”) condemns, and is disheartened by, the recent events in Alberta with incidents of police brutality against student pro-Palestine protestors.

On May 9, 2024, police in riot gear descended on student protestors at the University of Calgary using “flash-bang” explosives, batons, and shields, forcibly removing pro-Palestine protestors at a tent site on campus. On May 11, 2024, police in riot gear also forcibly removed student protestors at the University of Alberta using batons, force, and special munitions leading to three arrests of students and four students being injured, including one who was sent to the hospital after being found on the ground near campus.

This is unacceptable and unjustifiable conduct by the police, which is an affront to what universities stand for as being beacons for dialogue and freedom of expression, as well as a breach of democratic rights guaranteed to all under the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms. Such force should never be used against students engaging in peaceful assembly and free expression which are fundamental rights in Canadian society. CMLA strongly condemns this violent and heavy-handed approach.

MLA stands with students participating in peaceful encampments and protests across the country and is working to support them.

If you are a protestor or organizer who is seeking legal advice and/or assistance, please reach out to the CMLA at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.