Maybe not right now but don't tell some people that.
'Exercise our right': Central Alberta rodeo to proceed against COVID-19 restrictions
A rodeo scheduled for this weekend in defiance of provincial health regulations is still a go according to organizers.
But the “No More Lockdown Rodeo Rally” is facing stiff headwinds.
First, the Bowden Agricultural Society revoked it’s permit for the group to use the town’s rodeo grounds. That move was made following discussions with Alberta Health Services.
“I think it would have been good for the businesses here in town,” said Bowden mayor Robb Stuart. “I know the town and the AG society has done everything they possibly can to ensure we weren’t infringing on anybody’s rights to still follow like we have to deal with under the Alberta Health Services’ protocols.”
Secondly, a pair of rodeo cowboy associations distanced themselves from the event. The Foothills Cowboys Association and Wildrose Rodeo Association recently reversed course and withdrew their support of the event.
They went on to lash out at the decision and at provincial authorities saying, “We will not stand by idly and watch as not only our businesses but also our Western heritage and more importantly, our basic human rights are ripped out of existence by the tyrannical beings of our current world.”
The event is set to become as much a political rally as a sporting event, listing guest speakers well known for their opposition to COVID-19 health restrictions, including Innisfail activist and mayoral candidate Glen Carritt.
“We’re in civil disobedience right now and if people don’t move forward with civil disobedience then the next step is not fun,” said Carritt. “We want to exercise our right our freedom to assemble.”
A rodeo scheduled for this weekend in defiance of provincial health regulations is still a go according to organizers.
calgary.ctvnews.ca