I fully support the right to peaceful protest. It is a backbone of democracy. What is troubling is those stating what is happening in Ottawa and other protest locations is about Freedom.

People have every right to personally not be vaccinated and I do not believe it should be mandatory. However, the anti-vax movement and those who want all restrictions removed DO NOT speak for the majority of Canadians. We are all tired of COVID and its restrictions and wish to get back to normal but most of us want to stay safe and realize that that comes with inconveniences. Yes, measures have changed as the science is often in catch up and this can be frustrating.  I have seem friends and family get sick and die. The virus is only too real for me. My friends who are health-care workers are fighting to care for all people but frustrated that the unvaccinated are causing spikes.

Whereas at the beginning the silent majority was accepting of the right to protest, even if not agreeing with its premise,  we do not support the Ottawa protest as it has morphed into an occupation and those who do not support their movement have been harrassed. Not wanting to mount counter protests that result in a worsening situation with the potential for violence, we have stayed mostly silent. It is time for our voices to be heard and let politicians know that, although hoping restrictions can end soon, they must not capitulate to mob rule.

Please sign this petition to let it be known that we oppose unlawful occupation and harassment and back a science led approach to loosening and ending restrictions and respectful discourse.