A campaign event for Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau was canceled over safety concerns after angry coronavirus protesters rallied against the liberal leader.
“I need freedom,” read one sign held by a protester in Bolton, Ontario, on Friday. While others repeatedly screamed, “F*** Trudeau!,” and people were seen waving their middle fingers at the prime minister.
The event was first postponed by two hours on Friday, and was eventually canceled over security concerns due to the rowdy crowd.
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“Canadians have had a hard year,” Trudeau told reporters after the event was canceled. “And these protesters have also had a hard year. … I know and I feel the anger, the frustration, perhaps the fear.”
“But we must meet that anger with compassion.”
Much of the anger was in response to the Canadian government’s strict approach to vaccines and repeated lockdowns in the country.
Earlier this month, Trudeau said that people would be banned from boarding any plane, train or cruise ship in Canada unless they are fully vaccinated. All government employees are also required to get the vaccine, along with airlines and railways employees. He also announced on Friday that if he’s reelected, a $1 billion program would be established to assist provinces in developing vaccination passport programs.