Even with a previous “Freedom Rally” in Prince Albert being linked to COVID-19 exposure, and variants on the rise in the province, organizers went ahead Saturday with what was called a “children’s freedom rally fun day in the park”.

Saskatoon Police put out a statement Friday that they were aware of the event, and actually barricaded roads up to the Vimy Memorial in Kiwanis Park Saturday.  By the start time of 2 p.m. a couple of dozen people had gathered and between police and social media its estimated around one hundred people attended.  Most people at the event weren’t wearing masks

The City of Saskatoon said organizers of the event have not requested a permit for a public gathering. The City also says permits are only being provided for events that adhere to guidelines in the Re-Open Saskatchewan Plan and the current public health order.

Mayor Charlie Clark condemned the rally on social media saying “we have over 50 people fighting for every breath in ICUs in this province right now. Stay home and stay away from these dangerous rallies, otherwise you endanger your family, your workplaces, your schools and the community.”  Clark expected enforcement measures to be in place and wants the organizers to be held accountable for “bringing this threat to our community.”

CJWW contacted Saskatoon Police regarding any investigation into Saturday’s rally.  Police report there is currently no information about any charges being made yet.  However, Saskatoon Police officers have issued 25 tickets for Public Health Order violations since the beginning of the pandemic.