Ottawans rally against Trump in No Tyrants protest

Demonstrators gathered in front of the U.S. Embassy for one of the many anti-Trump No Tyrants protests held world-wide. CTV’s Natalie Van Rooy reports.

An international day of protest took place across the globe on Saturday, including in Ottawa, to push back against U.S. President Donald Trump’s administration.

No Tyrants protests were held from coast-to-coast in Canada and in the nation’s capital, the demonstration was held outside the U.S. embassy.

Linda Sabine, who has an American granddaughter and cousins who live near Detroit, says today’s event felt personal.

“I’m here today to support our American neighbours in their fight to maintain their democracy,” said Sabine, who was holding a sign that read “It’s up to you now America.”

The protestors held signs, rang bells, and honked horns to make it known that they don’t agree with Trump’s administration.

“The situation in the United States has gotten so egregious so quickly,” said Athena Hunter, an Ottawa resident.

“I think everybody that I know is very concerned. Concerned for people who are in America and also concerned for Canada with the kinds of threats that have been made.”

Ottawa’s event was organized by a group called Indivisible Ottawa.

“The main focus was opposing what Donald Trump is doing down there,” said Jay Baltz, an organizer at Indivisible Ottawa. “The move away from democracy and towards authoritarianism in the U.S and it’s effect on Canada.”

Millions of people were expected to attend over 2,500 protests across the U.S. on Saturday, where the events are called ‘No Kings’ rallies.

Organizers of the protests in the U.S. say Trump is leading an increasingly authoritarian and militarized government, including immigration and customs enforcement raids and troop deployments in many American cities.

Trump and the GOP have been dismissive of these demonstrations with some Republicans calling them “Anti-American” and arguing that the real intention of the protests is to prolong the federal government shutdown.

Back in Ottawa, many are hoping their message is heard loud and clear.

“It’s been a such a strong relationship for so many of us and we just felt like we needed to do more,” said Jessica Eitel, an organizer of Ottawa’s rally.

“I think it’s particularly important in Canada with all the threats to sovereignty and the 51st state rhetoric. Someone like myself, who’s a dual citizen, I want everyone to know that’s not okay and we need to stand up for Canada.”

People who attended Ottawa’s rally were encouraged to dress in costume, wear black and orange, and to bring signs.

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