Nelsonties join protestors across Canada opposed to Bill C-51
By Nelson Daily Staff
Activists in Nelson joined thousands across Canada Saturday to protest against the government’s proposed anti-terrorism legislation, Bill C-51.
Experts have said the new bill the will create secret police force with little oversight or accountability; facilitate government spying and information sharing on innocent Canadians; and violate the Charter of Rights by sharing information on innocent Canadians.
Nelson protestors gathered at the courtyard in front of City Hall to listen to speeches before marching in the streets of the Heritage City.
The we.leadnow.ca website, said there were 55 protests scheduled across Canada for the Defend our Freedom: National Day of Action to Stop the Secret Police Bill, including marches in the Kootenay — Nelson, Cranbrook and Castlegar.
Bill C-51 is one of many bills in recent months brought before the House by the Conservative government that will affect the security and privacy of ordinary Canadians, especially those who are politically and socially marginalized, of Indigenous descent and who are involved in activism.
The bill will amend over a dozen Canadian laws and is the first comprehensive reform of this kind since 2001.
