Tents by the swings at Rainbow Park, May 16, 2024 (Photo by: Lindsay Newman/ Blackburn Media)Tents by the swings at Rainbow Park, May 16, 2024 (Photo by: Lindsay Newman/ Blackburn Media)
Sarnia

Planned protest to challenge community engagement on encampments

A demonstration is planned in downtown Sarnia on Friday afternoon.

The peaceful protest is scheduled to challenge the City of Sarnia's community engagement in response to a homeless encampment at Rainbow Park.

"We now have rushed measures, that are complete crap," host Justine Tim wrote in a Facebook post promoting the June 28 event. "We all deserve to be heard on how our city will allow encampments throughout the city."

Those participating have been asked to gather at the corner of Queen and Devine Streets. At 3 p.m. the group will walk down Devine Street to Christina Street, past Rainbow Park, to Sarnia City Hall.

"As it’s been said it’s going to get worse before it gets better, you all have heard of things people around Rainbow Park are dealing with, is that what you want in your neighbourhood? What do you want near your businesses? This is our city and we need to be heard," Tim added.

The protest was organized before health and safety measures -- including temporary washrooms, fencing and lighting -- were added to the park this week.

Council has directed staff to review the directive on a 30-day basis. 

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