Toronto: Tensions ran high in Toronto’s Christie Pits Park as an anti-immigration rally drew heated opposition, leading to multiple confrontations and ten arrests, according to Toronto Police.
The “Canada First Patriot Rally,” organized by a group opposing current immigration policies, faced strong resistance from a large contingent of counter-protesters advocating for immigrant and marginalized communities. The demonstrations mirrored a growing national debate over the future of Canada’s immigration system.
Rally Meets Resistance
The rally, promoted as a call to “put Canadians first” and push back against “mass immigration,” was organized by activist Joe Anidjar. Speaking to media on-site, Anidjar claimed that rising immigration levels were straining national resources and affecting the livelihoods of Canadian citizens.
“We’re not against people — we’re against policies that ignore the needs of Canadians,” he said, addressing a crowd carrying flags and banners demanding stricter immigration controls.
But for many, the message was seen as divisive and exclusionary.
Hundreds of counter-demonstrators assembled in the same park, carrying signs that read “Immigrants Welcome” and “No Space for Hate.” Chants of solidarity echoed across the area as anti-fascist groups, labour unions, students, and community activists pushed back against the rally’s message.
Organizers of the counter-protest described Christie Pits as a historic site of resistance, recalling the 1933 anti-Semitic riot that took place at the park, and vowing to keep the space inclusive.
Police Step In
The Toronto Police Service reported that the first arrest took place around 12:40 p.m. near Bloor Street West and Christie Street for an alleged assault. By the end of the day, ten people had been arrested in connection with various incidents linked to both the rally and counter-protest.
Authorities were deployed in significant numbers to keep both sides apart, and some streets in the downtown core were temporarily closed due to safety concerns. Bloor Street West, Bay Street, and parts of Yonge and Wellesley experienced intermittent traffic delays as the demonstrations moved toward Sankofa Square.
All roads have since reopened.
Voices of Concern
Among those speaking out was Deena Ladd, executive director of the Workers’ Action Centre, who condemned the rhetoric coming from the anti-immigration rally.
“Immigrants are being used as scapegoats for systemic failures,” Ladd said. “They’re being blamed for unaffordable housing, food insecurity, and lack of access to healthcare — none of which are the fault of newcomers.”
She emphasized that communities facing poverty and exclusion are already struggling and should not be pitted against each other.
National Spotlight on Immigration
The demonstrations came days after Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney acknowledged that the country’s immigration policies are under pressure. In a recent statement, Carney called for a more focused and sustainable approach to immigration, suggesting that reforms are necessary to ensure long-term success.
“It’s clear that we must improve our overall immigration policies,” he said. “Canada’s strength lies in its diversity, but we also need systems that are effective and fair.”
