An estimated 150 people took part in a protest rally Monday in Red Deer. (rdnewsNOW/Josh Hall)

By Troy Gillard

mayor denounces racism in statement

Veer reminds protesters in Red Deer to follow public health rules

Jun 1, 2020 | 6:01 PM

Red Deer’s mayor is asking that residents ensure they are following public health guidelines while taking part in peaceful protests in the city.

About 150 people took part in a protest in downtown Red Deer during the noon hour on Monday calling for an end to racism following the death of George Floyd, a black man who died last week in Minneapolis after a white police officer kneeled on his neck for several minutes.

“We strive for Red Deer to be a welcoming community where everyone can enjoy a high quality of life, but unfortunately, we know that racism does exist in our community as it does in so many others,” Veer says in a statement on behalf of city council.

“It has been heartbreaking to bear witness to recent events, and as always, I am proud of our community for coming together to stand in solidarity against racism and to affirm the value of all persons.”

Veer goes on to say, “It is a democratic right for Canadians to stand up for what we believe in and to protest lawfully and peacefully. We encourage all Red Deerians to share their voice, but remind all citizens that public health and safety must continue to be a priority.”

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Those public health measures include maintaining at least two metres of physical distancing and wearing a mask when that’s not possible, and adhering to the province’s mass gathering restrictions (of no more than 50 people).

Monday’s protest rally in Red Deer was monitored by Red Deer RCMP members. No tickets were issued.

RELATED: Over 100 protest in downtown Red Deer against racism