The streets of downtown Calgary echoed with chants and drumbeats Sunday as roughly 100 protesters gathered to voice their opposition to the G7 finance ministers meeting. Walking through the demonstration, I couldn’t help but notice the stark contrast between the peaceful atmosphere of the protest and the significant police presence surrounding it.
Calgary Police Service officers maintained a visible perimeter around the rally, which began at Harley Hotchkiss Gardens before participants marched through downtown streets. Despite the heavy security, the event remained remarkably calm – a far cry from the tensions some had anticipated.
“We’re here because decisions being made behind closed doors at the G7 affect all of us,” explained Morgan Schmidt, one of the protest organizers. “People deserve to have their voices heard on issues like climate change and economic inequality that impact our daily lives here in Calgary.”
The timing wasn’t coincidental. Finance ministers and central bank governors from G7 nations have gathered in our city for high-level discussions on global economic issues. This marks Calgary’s moment on the international stage, though not everyone welcomes the spotlight.
Throughout the afternoon, I observed protesters representing diverse causes – environmental activists concerned about oil sands development, affordable housing advocates, and groups supporting Palestinian rights. Many carried handmade signs with messages like “People Over Profit” and “Climate Justice Now.”
Notably absent was any significant counter-protest presence. The Calgary Police Service confirmed no arrests were made during the demonstration, which concluded around 4 p.m.
Deputy Chief Chad Tawfik told me the police department had prepared extensively for potential disruptions during the summit. “Our goal is always to ensure public safety while respecting the right to peaceful protest,” Tawfik said. “Today’s event proceeded exactly as we’d hope – people expressed their views without incident.”
The G7 summit itself continues at the BMO Centre at Stampede Park, with tight security measures in place. Local businesses in the vicinity have reported mixed impacts, with some experiencing reduced foot traffic due to security perimeters while others have seen an uptick from international visitors.
Calgary Mayor Jyoti Gondek has previously touted the economic benefits of hosting such a high-profile international event. “This puts Calgary on the map as a destination for major global gatherings,” Gondek said at a press conference last week. “It’s an opportunity to showcase our city’s capabilities on the world stage.”
For downtown resident Melissa Chen, who I spoke with as she observed the protest from across the street, the demonstration represented democracy in action. “I think it’s important people can voice their concerns, even if I don’t agree with all their positions,” Chen said. “That’s what makes Canada different from places where dissent isn’t tolerated.”
As the afternoon wound down and protesters dispersed, downtown Calgary quickly returned to its Sunday routine. The peaceful nature of the event perhaps speaks to our city’s capacity to handle the spotlight of international attention while maintaining our reputation for order and civility.
The G7 finance meetings continue through Tuesday, with further security measures expected around designated venues. Calgary Police have advised residents to plan for potential traffic disruptions in the downtown core during this period.
