Speaking while in isolation after testing positive for COVID-19, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau condemned the behaviour displayed by some people who took part in the trucker convoy protest in Ottawa over the weekend.
"We’re not intimidated by those who hurl abuse at small business workers and steal food from the homeless. We won’t give in to those who fly racist flags. And we won’t cave to those who engage in vandalism, or dishonor the memory of our veterans."
On Sunday, Shepherds of Good Hope in downtown Ottawa issued a statement saying that many of their staff had been harassed as some who took part in the protest demanded meals.
"Anyone who is part of this group who is disgusted by what folks protesting alongside them are doing, needs to step up and take responsibility, condemn these actions and look for other ways to express their displeasure," said Trudeau.
Premier Doug Ford also spoke out against what was seen in the nation's capital this weekend.
“The right to peaceful protest is core to our Canadian identity. I was extremely disturbed, however, to see some individuals desecrate our most sacred monuments and wave swastikas and other symbols of hate and intolerance this weekend. That has no place in Ontario or Canada. Not now. Not ever," said Ford.
While most of the province's restaurants and gyms reopened partially Monday, many small and large businesses in Ottawa remained closed Monday because of the continued protests in downtown Ottawa.
