Ottawa Mayor attends protests, tells Canadians to stand against racism

Mayor Watson confirmed that he will attend the "No Peace Until Justice" demonstration which is happening this Friday afternoon at the U.S. embassy on Sussex Drive. Watson also took a moment to address all those that are planning to attend that COVID-19 physical distancing measures are still in effect.

Watson wrote a long thread on Twitter regarding his thought on acts of racism both in the U.S. but even in his home city of Ottawa and the rest of Canada.

Watson acknowledged that while much of the current focus surrounding racism in on the United States, it is present in Canada as well and he asked that all Canadians take an active stance against racism.

"[W]hile the death of Mr. Floyd has focused most attention on the United States, we know that as a country, we are not immune to racism, or racist behaviour, and we are far from perfect," Watson wrote. "Racism is present in our midst."

Watson told Canadians that denouncing racism whenever it is witnessed, is part of their obligation as citizens. He also specifically referenced acts of racism against the Asian-Canadian community during the COVID-19 pandemic.

He also specifically referenced acts of racism against the Asian-Canadian community during the COVID-19 pandemic.

"While I know this is an important event, and I am encouraged by the positivity surrounding this particular gathering, we MUST remember that the COVID-19 pandemic is still present in our community. Let’s be safe, and avoid setting ourselves back weeks, or even months," wrote Watson.