Ontario cities consider bylaws to prohibit protests near schools, places of worship

In the wake of violent protests in Brampton outside a Hindu temple, Ontario municipalities are taking a closer look at the possibility of enacting local laws to prohibit protests near sensitive locations like places of worship, schools, and hospitals.

Brampton Mayor Patrick Brown has indicated plans to propose a motion to the city council to create such a bylaw after the violent clashes involving Sikh separatists and counter-protesters outside the Hindu Sabha Mandir, which resulted in three arrests.

In nearby Vaughan, city council already passed a bylaw in June that bans "nuisance demonstrations" within 100 meters of vulnerable social infrastructure, which includes schools, child-care centers, hospitals, and places of worship.

The bylaw, however, does not prohibit peaceful protests or demonstrations, such as labor strikes, but focuses on preventing disruptions near critical facilities.

Following the unrest in Brampton, Ottawa is also considering a similar measure. The city's council voted last week to study the feasibility of implementing a bylaw that would protect vulnerable institutions while preserving the right to protest.

Ottawa Coun. Allan Hubley, who moved the motion, emphasized the need for safety and the desire to foster peaceful protests without escalating tensions during demonstrations.

These discussions reflect growing concerns among Ontario municipalities about maintaining public order and protecting sensitive locations from disruptions while balancing the right to protest.

The proposed bylaws would aim to allow for peaceful demonstrations while preventing violence and ensuring the safety of both the public and critical infrastructure.