Freedom Convoy supporters rally in Uptown Waterloo

Demonstrators gathered in Uptown Waterloo Saturday afternoon in support of the convoy protests happening in Ottawa, voicing opposition to provincial vaccine mandates. 

Regional police were on scene in the public square to ensure community safety, along with a handful of counter-protesters. Two protesters were arrested inside the square for trespassing after refusing demands by security to wear a mask or leave. They were charged and released at the scene. 

In preparation for the demonstration, King Street South was closed from Erb to William Street, with vehicles circling the Uptown area sounding their horns. Police representatives say the square has since cleared out and roads have reopened.

Hespeler Road in Cambridge saw a demonstration as well, with around 300 people gathering near the office of Cambridge MP Brian May. 

Prior to the protests, regional police issued a statement noting that they had been monitoring planned rallies throughout the region and had a “full operational plan in place” including enhanced police presence to ensure the safety and security of all community members.

The City of Waterloo also issued a statement on behalf of local city mayors in the region and regional chair Karen Redman stating that “citizens always have the right to gather in peaceful protest…” but “regardless of what citizens are protesting, there is never an excuse for hate-filled symbols, words or actions. When protesters corrupt the meaning of 'freedom' to create a safe space where racism, hate and gender-based aggression cause deliberate harm to racialized community members and other identifiable groups, it must be condemned without hesitation.”

They added that they hoped that “reprehensible behaviour” will not be seen during the protests this weekend. 

The rally in Waterloo is expected to continue Sunday with a large presence.