KENORA, Ont. – Kenora MP Eric Melillo has denounced racists who brought Nazi symbolism to an Ottawa protest on Saturday, the culmination of a cross-country convoy of truckers upset with COVID-19 mandates.
The convoy also attracted a mass of fringe political elements, including white supremacists, anti-government protesters and Nazi sympathizers, who desecrated a statue of Terry Fox in the nation’s capital and parked vehicles on the steps of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.
“It was truly disturbing to see Nazi symbols displayed at Canada’s Parliament today,” the Conservative Melillo posted to his official Twitter account.
“These are symbols of hate, racism, and evil that have no place in this country, let alone on the grounds of Parliament. There have also been acts of disrespect towards the National War Memorial, the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and the Terry Fox statues. These actions are unacceptable.”
Earlier this week, however, Melillo told Kenora Online that he opposed the federal government’s trucker vaccination mandate, which requires all drivers returning to the country to be fully vaccinated or face up to two weeks of quarantine each time they enter the country.
The distaste at some involved in the protest, which included anti-maskers confronting business owners and convoy members demanding food from a homeless shelter, was widespread and crossed the entire political spectrum.
Gen. Wayne Eyre, Chief of the Defence Staff, said he was sickened to see protesters dancing on the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.
“Generations of Canadians have fought and died for our rights, including free speech, but not this. Those involved should hang their heads in shame,” Eyre said in a Twitter post.
Timmins-James Bay NDP MP agreed, calling it one of the most hallowed places in Canada.
“It is appalling to see it being desecrated by idiots,” Angus said, echoing the anger of Conservative MP Michele Rempel Garner.
Rempel Garner’s boss, Opposition Leader Erin O’Toole, who greeted convoy members with open arms earlier in the week, said he supports the right to peaceful protest, but that should never be confused with blatant disregard for those who served, inspired and protected Canada.
“The individuals desecrating these memorials should be ashamed and their behavior undermines the brave Canadians who have sacrificed for our country,” O’Toole said via social media.
