Canadians for Justice and Peace in the Middle East Demands Protest Rights Protection Amidst Police Repression in Ottawa

The arrests of four protesters, the disproportionate police presence, and the use of excessive force against demonstrators highlight a troubling trend of targeting pro-Palestinian voices. This crackdown, particularly against Black and Middle Eastern individuals, represents a blatant violation of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms, which guarantees the right to peaceful assembly and free expression.

"The violent response from police is deeply alarming and sets a dangerous precedent for silencing dissent," said Jamila Ewais, Lead Researcher at the ARPCF. "By treating peaceful protesters as a public threat, Ottawa Police have weaponized their authority to silence fundamental human rights. This selective enforcement undermines the principles of equity and justice that are foundational to Canadian democracy."

The ARPCF notes with concern that the police's preemptive escalation, including ramming bikes into protesters and disproportionate arrests, appears to be racially motivated. This echoes documented patterns of systemic racism in Canadian policing, as highlighted in Ottawa Police’s own Annual Use of Force Reports. The blanket prohibition of noise amplification devices and threats of mischief charges against concerned citizens further reflect a coordinated effort to intimidate and suppress voices advocating for Palestinian rights

The ARPCF calls on Ottawa Police Service to take immediate action to ensure accountability and equity in policing. This includes a transparent investigation into the actions of the Ottawa Police Service during the protest, assurances from law enforcement agencies to uphold the right to peaceful assembly without undue interference or intimidation, and an end to the selective and racially biased application of policing tactics. The ARPCF also urges the implementation of mandatory anti-bias training for police, clear de-escalation protocols for managing protests, and accountability mechanisms to address instances of misconduct. These measures are essential to reaffirming Canada’s commitment to protecting democratic rights, ensuring free expression, and fostering equity for all communities.