Canadian truckers are protesting in the national capital following a week-long drive across the country. The organizers are protesting against the vaccine mandates and distancing measures. Here’s what’s happening.
Canadian truckers and the Freedom Convoy
Dubbed as the freedom convoy, Canadian truckers are protesting the vaccine mandate imposed by the government. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s government earlier this month began implementing vaccine mandates for truckers who are crossing the US-Canadian border. However, unvaccinated Canadian truckers are upset with the new rule as they will need to quarantine after returning. Hence a loose coalition of conservative groups and truckers started organizing a nationwide drive from western Canada.
The nationwide drive picked up steam and gathered support. As they moved eastwards, several supporters were already opposing the Trudeau and liberal government. They are becoming frustrated with the distancing measures and see it as a political overreach. News footage and social media are flooding with trucks and companion vehicles on highways and people cheering on the roadsides. Several people were seen waving the Canadian flag and signs that are criticizing the PM. The unusual protest also caught the eye of Joe Rogan, the son of former US President Donald Trump and, Russel Brand, a British comedian who showed their support. The protestors are planning to stay near Parliament Hill in Ottawa for at least a weekend. “We want to be free, we want to have our choice again, and we want hope – and the government has taken that away,” said Harold Jonker, a truck driver, and company owner.
Vaccine mandate: A real threat of unintended consequences
So far, the convoy has been peaceful while passing through several towns and cities of the country. The Ottawa police are in touch with the organizers, who have been peaceful and cooperating. However, the authorities are concerned as it is gathering extremist support. “The demonstrations this weekend will be unique – fluid, risky, and significant,” noted the Ottawa police. They are also concerned about people on social media “who may or may not come to the city. But, are nonetheless inciting hate, violence and in some cases criminality”.
Just like other nations, Canada is also facing the pains of inflation amidst the supply chain strain caused by the pandemic. And, the nation broadly supports the vaccine mandates with over 80 percent of the country’s eligible population being fully vaccinated. Hence, Mr. Trudeau earlier denounced the convoy and supporters as a fringe minority. However, the rising prices and need for groceries are crucial. Most of the nation’s economy depends on Canadian truckers who help deliver resources. “Everything that Canadians depend on – food, clothing, electronics – everything arrives on the back of trucks,” stated Ambarish Chandra. Chandra is an associate professor at the Rotman School of Management and an expert in US-Canada border studies. He added that with the mandate, “there’s a real threat of unintended consequences”.