Canada: Motorcycle rallies and related events planned in Ottawa April 29-May 1

Event

A series of motorcycle rallies and related events are planned in Ottawa April 29-May 1. The multiday program of rallies, labeled "Ottawa Freedom Weekend," has been organized by multiple groups affiliated with Rolling Thunder Ottawa that variously seek to oppose perceived governmental overreach, restore fundamental freedoms, and share stories of individuals involved in previous Freedom Convoy protests. Organizers reportedly claim that more 500 motorcyclists may participate in the events.

The events are scheduled to begin at 18:00 April 29 with a rally and march at Parliament Hill. At 09:00 April 30, motorcyclists are slated to gather at the St. Laurent Shopping Centre. A service is then scheduled at the National War Memorial at 10:00, with motorcyclists scheduled to travel to the memorial at 11:00. Motorcyclists are subsequently slated to leave on routes outside the city at 12:00 before another rally and march are scheduled at Parliament Hill at 14:00. At 10:30 May 1, a religious service is scheduled at Capital City Bikers' Church, located at 155 Carillon Street in Vanier. For more details on the Ottawa Freedom Weekend itinerary, click here.

Authorities have asserted that while activists will be able to exercise their right to conduct lawful demonstrations, city officials and police will not permit vehicle-based rallies or protests within designated downtown areas, including near and around Parliament Hill and the National War Memorial. Authorities have accordingly created a motor-vehicle exclusion zone wherein vehicles involved in any rally are prohibited; other traffic will still be permitted to circulate within the exclusion zone.

Heightened security and localized transport disruptions are likely near all Rolling Thunder-affiliated gatherings, including in the downtown area of Ottawa and near a rural site on Eagleson Road in Richmond where some rally participants are likely to assemble. Clashes between activists and police cannot be ruled out.

Advice

Avoid all Rolling Thunder-related rallies and events as a precaution. Allow additional time to reach your destination if operating in Ottawa April 29-May 1. Consider taking alternative routes to circumvent rally areas. Adhere to all instructions issued by local authorities.