The “Occupy” demonstrations are a rapidly growing movement with the shared goal of urging people to peacefully assemble and occupy public space in order to create a shared dialogue by which to address the problems and generate solutions for an economically distressed world.
– Councillor Gord Perks
We have been occupying St. James Park for over a month. We have established a community of mutual respect, acceptance, and love. We have created a place where people can come in and discuss opinions, hardships and most importantly work together towards solutions. A place where people don’t have to be afraid to speak their mind, where their voice is heard and respected.
It is unfortunate that the Ontario Court of Justice has respectfully asked us to disassemble. That “the city” would like this “occupation” to end. That “the city” would like our voices to be silent. We understand why the city wants us disassembled: change is difficult for those paid to be the system keepers.
We respectfully disagree with the court’s decision. We do not believe the decision is within our constitutional rights. We do not feel that there is a limit on our rights. Up until this point we have been and continue to practice our rights (Section 2 of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms). We feel that a city’s by-laws should not overrule the Canadian Charter. The court’s decision is just another example of why we are here. While some will remain in the park maintaining non-violent, peaceful protest, others have already mobilized to occupy locations throughout the city.
This should in no way be considered a defeat but as a sign that we must bring this movement to the next level. We will continue to work together, not just as a movement but as a community to build a better future not just for you, not just for us, but for the whole human family and our future generations. The Occupation is spreading and the people united will never be defeated.
Occupy Toronto
Movement Defence committee
416 833 6137
