Understanding the Freedom Convoy at Scarborough Town Centre
On Saturday morning, I visited the Scarborough Town Centre parking lot to engage with the participants of what is known as the “Freedom Convoy,” aiming to gain insight into their motivations and objectives. This location had been promoted on social media as one of several assembly points for convoy members set to gather at Queen’s Park, the provincial government’s seat.
When I arrived shortly after 9:00 a.m., the parking lot was mostly empty, but I quickly spotted about ten convoy vehicles, all adorned with Canadian flags and various colorful handmade signs. As I made my way across the lot to begin what turned into over two hours of interviews, I noticed an increasing number of cars, SUVs, trucks, and even a few large rigs arriving from all directions.
Initial Hesitations and Friendly Interactions
My initial concerns about interviewing demonstrators involved in a movement that had recently faced significant negative media coverage dissipated after speaking with Robert. He was sociable and genuinely friendly, reflecting the demeanor of most participants I encountered that morning. Robert expressed the movement’s core goal, stating, “I want the discrimination to end between the vaxxed and non-vaxxed,” emphasizing that the movement is fundamentally about freedom of choice.
Views on COVID and Personal Autonomy
Robert clarified that he does not believe COVID is “a hoax” but feels that the government response was exaggerated: “It’s been taken further than it has to be.” His strong belief in personal autonomy regarding vaccination was a sentiment echoed by everyone else I interviewed. Interestingly, Robert revealed that his views have evolved over time—from initially following lockdown mandates to growing increasingly distrustful of the government and media.
Impact of Lockdowns on Families
Connie, another participant who admitted to never having participated in a protest before, shared a deeply personal story about the impact of lockdowns on her family. Tearfully, she explained how her sixteen-year-old daughter struggled with severe mental health issues due to isolation during the lockdowns. Other parents I spoke with also cited the negative effects of prolonged lockdowns and mask-wearing on their children as motivating factors for participating in the protest in frigid temperatures.
Perspectives of Immigrants from Autocratic Regimes
Some protest participants drew parallels between the current government actions and their experiences in authoritarian countries. For instance, Elena, a first-time protestor, articulated her belief that no government should dictate personal medical choices. Having immigrated from the Soviet Union and post-socialist Russia, she felt this government overreach is reminiscent of her homeland. Similarly, Daryosh, a 65-year-old long-haul trucker from Revolutionary Iran, found the mandates akin to the authoritarianism he experienced growing up.
Countering Accusations of Racism
As conversations unfolded, many participants expressed frustration regarding the mainstream media’s portrayal of their movement as racist. Daryosh and his son, both Persian immigrants, took offense to accusations made by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, who condemned certain behaviors at protests. The participants argued that such assertions unfairly generalized their cause. Some, like Carson, an unemployed handyman, asserted the movement’s peaceful intent and commitment to raising their voices, contradicting media narratives they viewed as biased.
Diverse Representation at the Protest
The rally at Queen’s Park later that day showcased an inclusive atmosphere, with numerous families attending despite the display of strong anti-Trudeau sentiments. While hateful symbols observed in other protests were absent at Queen’s Park, a Cuban-Canadian participant emphasized the group’s diversity, stating that he saw no racism whatsoever, embodying a point made by many that their gathering represented a wide variety of backgrounds.
