Dear Neighbours,
On May 22nd, Toronto City Council adopted a bylaw which restricts demonstrations in our city to 50 metres from schools, daycares, and places of worship. You can review and learn more about this item here: Agenda Item History – 2025.CC30.5
Many have raised concerns over the protection of free speech as enshrined by the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms. This is a deeply cherished right of every citizen and one which I hold dearly. This legislation, however, does not prevent anyone from protesting. Rather, this bylaw creates a modest space for those wishing to enter their community centres to do so. Harassment and intimidation of those wishing to send their children to school or daycare or attend their houses of worship is unacceptable, and I am glad that Toronto City Council has finally taken this step in the protection of the Jewish community.
I spoke to my reasoning for supporting this bylaw at Council; you can listen to it: Councillor Saxe’s Remarks on Protest Zones.
Thank you to everyone for their engagement with me throughout this process.
Sincerely,
Councillor Dianne Saxe
Ward 11, University-Rosedale
