Police, bylaw attend but no anti-lockdown ralliers showed up to New Sudbury protest

An anti-lockdown rally that was supposed to occur at the New Sudbury Centre on Saturday didn’t happen, but Greater Sudbury Police and city bylaw officers were in attendance just in case it went ahead.

Sudbury woman Mandi Labelle, who was an organizer of an anti-mask rally in November, posted details about the Jan. 30 event to Facebook last week. Police and bylaw did receive tips about the event from people who saw the Facebook post.

A message to Labelle was not returned.

Sudbury.com did send a reporter on Saturday at the time specified in the since-deleted Facebook post, but only police and bylaw officers were in attendance.

The city did issue a statement regarding the event. 

“While we do respect the right to peaceful protest, the health and safety of our community remains our top priority,” the message from Shannon Dowling of the city’s communications department reads. “We continue to work with Greater Sudbury Police and Public Health Sudbury & Districts to educate people on the current provincial guidelines, with a strong emphasis on reducing the potential spread of COVID-19.

“Individuals who fail to comply with the orders related to gatherings may face fines between $10,000 and $100,000 for hosting or organizing an event or gathering and $750 for attending. Residents or businesses with concerns about gatherings are encouraged to contact 311 so they can be directed to the appropriate agency.”

Jason Lafauci, one of the organizers of the November anti-mask rally, was mentioned in the Jan. 29 story about the planned rally for Saturday. In a message to Sudbury.com, Lafauci denied being involved in planning any rally this past weekend.

Labelle posted an invite to the rally on Facebook on Jan. 29. 

“We will be walking up and down to Walmart and back!! We do have some signs, so I am able to provide signs if you don't have one!!  If signs can be made, that would help!!” the post read. “Bring, whistles, bells, horns, blow horns, pots and pans if you have to, lol let's make some noise against the lockdown for the small businesses. We are pro-choice so if you want to wear a mask or not, it is up to you. 

“Social distancing is an absolute must!! We don't want to upset people.”

When contacted by Sudbury.com, GSPS said Jan. 29 they would be contacting Labelle.

“Officers will attempt to engage with the organizers in order to educate them on the laws under Ontario Regulation 11/21 under the Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act prior to the potential rally,” police spokesperson Kaitlyn Dunn said. 

“Under the Stay-at-Home Order, outdoor gatherings are limited to a maximum of five persons and any organizer or individual involved in an organized gathering exceeding five persons could be subject to a fine under O. Reg., 11/21.”