Canada: Rival demonstrations in Vancouver August 19

Event

Demonstrations and rallies by opposing groups are expected to take place in downtown Vancouver on Saturday, August 19. The far-right groups Worldwide Coalition Against Islam and the Cultural Action Party plan to hold a rally near Vancouver City Hall from 12:45 to 16:00 (local time). Simultaneously, a large counter-protest organized by the group Stand Up to Racism is also expected to converge on City Hall. In light of the violence that erupted during a right-wing rally in the US city of Charlottesville, Virginia, on August 12, a significant security demployment should be anticipated surrouding the rallies, along with accompanying traffic delays. While violence is not expected, Vancouver police officials have stated they have operational plans in place for the weekend. 

Context

Violence broke out at a Unite the Right rally organized by white-supremacist groups in Charlottesville on August 12. One person was killed and at least another 19 injured when an assailant identified as a white nationalist intentionally drove a car into a group of counter-protesters. Other confrontations between rival demonstrators were also reported August 11-12, leading to multiple injuries and arrests. 

Advice

Individuals in Vancouver are advised to avoid the demonstrations and to anticipate traffic disruptions.