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The Freedom Convoy 2022 fundraiser created on GoFundMe has been removed from the platform after the company received evidence of “violence and unlawful activity” in Ottawa.
GoFundMe paused donations to the fundraiser this week, and have now released an update saying that they will not be dispersing any more funds to the organizers.
GoFundMe said that following multiple discussions with local law enforcement and city officials, they have concluded that the fundraiser now violates their Terms of Service.
Specifically, the convoy violates Term 8, which prohibits the promotion of violence and harassment.
“GoFundMe supports peaceful protests and we believe that was the intention of the Freedom Convoy 2022 fundraiser when it was first created,” GoFundMe said in its statement today.
“We now have evidence from law enforcement that the previously peaceful demonstration has become an occupation, with police reports of violence and other unlawful activity.”
The company said that they will work with the campaign organizers to send the remaining funds, about $10 million, to established charities. Donors are able to submit a request for a full refund until Feb. 19, 2022.
Organizers of the convoy are also facing another obstacle — a class action lawsuit has been filed against them on behalf of downtown Ottawa residents totalling nearly $9.8 million.
Mayor of Ottawa Jim Watson thanked GoFundMe for making the decision to shut down the fundraising page this afternoon.
"In light of the unlawful behaviour that has transpired in the last few days, they have come to the right decision in support of our city and our residents," Watson said.
"These protesters have been holding our city hostage for a week now, and I'm hopeful that limiting their access to funding and resources will restrict their ability to remain in Ottawa. I am imploring similar crowdfunding platforms to take the same position and not enable the group in its fundraising efforts, which would deal a blow to our efforts to put an end to this occupation."
In a news conference held by Freedom Convoy 2022 organizers yesterday, Keith Wilson, a lawyer with Justice Centre for Constitutional Freedom, explained that they filed paperwork in an effort to lift the suspension GoFundMe put on the campaign.
The organizers said the money was to be used for fuel, food and lodging for truckers and supporters.
A trucker convoy protest is also planned for this weekend in Victoria. Mike Farnworth, minister of public safety, issued a statement this afternoon warning residents ahead of time.
“For people in Victoria, I want you to be aware of the potential of a truck convoy protest heading to the legislative buildings this weekend so you and your family can plan accordingly,” Farnworth said.
“We are aware of the chance of disruption to residents and businesses in the area, and planning and communication by law enforcement is underway. We all want this pandemic to be over, and we will get through it by working together.”
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