Another peaceful rally is planned for this weekend in Dresden to oppose a proposed landfill next to the town.
Organizers said a human chain will be formed on Sunday from Irish School Road to St. George Street in Dresden. The peaceful rally will be held between 1 p.m. and 2:30 p.m.
Rally organizers want the public to stand with the community against Bill 5 and the threat of land expropriation. They called the rally a "powerful symbol of unity" against environmental harm and government overreach.
"Show them that farmland is not a dump site. It's our legacy," said Jodi-Lynn Janess in a social media post. "By simply standing hand-in-hand for one hour, we can send a strong message about protecting our town, our land, and the people who call it home. Everyone is welcome. Let’s make an impact together."
Organizers are asking members of the public to bring their passion, their friends, and family to this "grassroots movement" organized by community members who care deeply about preserving the land and waterways for future generations.
They believe that standing together can make a difference and showing strength, love for their town, and commitment to protecting it can go a long way.
"I am so excited, let's go guys, let's rally. And we're going to do tractors. So, everybody bring their tractors. We'll park in the field across the road from our site," said organizer Angie Mills-Richards in a social media post. "Guys, we got this, let's go, let's rock!"
Bill 5, also known as the "Protect Ontario by Unleashing Our Economy Act," is facing legal challenges and public opposition, particularly concerning its impact on the Dresden Landfill.
The bill allows the province to fast-track projects, potentially bypassing environmental assessments, which is a major concern for the Dresden area.
First Nations groups are leading a lawsuit against the bill and the Municipality of Chatham-Kent is exploring legal options and advocating for a more robust environmental review process.
York 1 Environmental Solutions wants to restart a dormant landfill and increase its capacity significantly, which has raised concerns about potential environmental impacts, including on water quality, wetlands, and local communities.