Move by Toronto police to ban protests in residential neighbourhood draws criticism
Written by The Canadian Press on March 24, 2026
TORONTO — Toronto police say they are banning protests on residential streets of a predominantly Jewish neighbourhood in the city’s north end, calling the move a “reasonable limitation” to the Charter-protected right to freedom of assembly.
Police say the decision was made in response to “increased volatility and heightened fear” in the area of Bathurst Street and Sheppard Avenue, where weekly pro-Palestinian demonstrations have been happening for more than two years.
Deputy Chief Frank Barredo says protesters can still gather along the main roads of Bathurst and Sheppard but will be arrested and charged with obstructing police if they disobey orders to stay away from residential streets in the area.
Barredo made the comments as police announced the launch of a new counterterrorism security unit and a task force that will deploy officers armed with long weapons to places of worship, tourist attractions and other locations in Toronto.
The Canadian Civil Liberties Association is criticizing the move to ban protesters from residential streets in North York, saying it raises “serious concerns about violations” of Charter rights.
The association says banning protests in public spaces is an attack on freedom of expression and freedom of peaceful assembly.
This report by The Canadian Press was first published March 24, 2026.
The Canadian Press