Protesters hold ‘people’s forum’ in Calgary ahead of G7, prepare for Sunday march
As the final day before the G7 leaders gathered in Kananaskis, Alta., activists and community groups came together in downtown Calgary for a “people’s forum” to discuss their concerns and plans for a demonstration and march on Sunday. The goal was to unite various activist groups and address the ongoing issues that will persist after the G7 summit concludes.
Yasmeen Khan of the International League of Peoples’ Struggle (ILPS) emphasized the importance of building a people’s movement in Calgary and Alberta, particularly in response to the priorities of the G7 leaders. Around 100 people participated in the counter-summit hosted by ILPS, discussing resolutions and preparing for the upcoming protests.
A series of protests and marches are expected in downtown Calgary on Sunday, representing a diverse range of groups including labor, youth, Indigenous, and environmental activists. While there are designated demonstration zones established by officials, organizers have stated that people have the right to assemble outside these zones.
The ILPS anticipates several hundred participants at the protest near city hall, with additional support coming from Edmonton. Plans for a peaceful march in collaboration with other community and activist groups are also in place, with the hope of engaging in dialogue with law enforcement to ensure a safe and non-confrontational demonstration.
Security officials have promised a “measured and proportionate” response to the protests, emphasizing dialogue and de-escalation. With a significant police presence from RCMP, Calgary Police Service, and other agencies, organizers and participants are hopeful for a peaceful demonstration.
However, concerns have been raised about the livestreaming of demonstration zones for G7 leaders to watch, with some likening the practice to something out of “The Hunger Games.” Despite these concerns, various activist groups including the Calgary Raging Grannies, Indigenous rights advocates, and members of Calgary’s Ukrainian community are expected to participate in Sunday’s demonstrations.
In addition to protesting the G7 summit itself, some groups are planning to protest the attendance of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who was invited by Prime Minister Mark Carney. The Sikh Federation of Canada is among those organizing protests against Modi’s presence.
While Greenpeace Canada has decided not to send a large contingent to Alberta this year, the energy and passion of the activists and community groups in Calgary remain strong. The summit in Kananaskis may be surrounded by layers of security and inaccessible to the public, but the voices of the people in Calgary will be heard loud and clear as they come together to advocate for change and justice.
