Balancing the Right to Protest with Public Safety

I recently watched the video above shared by my colleague, Chris Anquist, MA CPP , that deeply resonated with me. It highlighted the delicate balance between the right to protest and the need for public safety.

Canada’s democratic values enshrine the right to protest as a fundamental freedom under the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms. This right empowers individuals to express their opinions, advocate for change, and hold those in power accountable. Peaceful protests have long served as a catalyst for social progress, amplifying voices and shedding light on critical issues. They remind us that every citizen has a role in shaping our society.

However, with this freedom comes responsibility. Protests must remain non-violent and respectful of public safety and the rights of others. Recent incidents of aggression, intimidation, and criminal acts at protests across Canada are deeply concerning, as they undermine the very democratic values they claim to uphold. Violence and threats do not spark meaningful change—they create fear, erode trust, and delegitimize the causes they aim to advance.

The rise of extremism and hate-fueled rhetoric during some protests further highlights the growing risks. These behaviors sow division, incite violence, and often target marginalized communities, threatening the social cohesion Canada holds dear. Extremist ideologies must be actively opposed, as they are incompatible with peaceful advocacy and civil discourse. Addressing these issues requires collective action and a strong commitment to rejecting hate while upholding freedoms.

In a democracy, disagreement is natural, but respect and civility are essential to ensuring progress. Threats, intimidation, or unlawful behavior cross the line, endangering individuals and communities. Now, more than ever, we must protect the right to protest while ensuring protests remain lawful and safe.

For those of us in public safety, law enforcement, and security, these events underscore the need to remain vigilant. We must uphold the balance between safeguarding rights and ensuring safety, oppose actions that endanger lives, and protect the fundamental freedoms that generations of Canadians have fought to preserve.