When we headed out for Ottawa from Waterloo Region, we didn't really know what to expect. Having attended the rallies in 1994 and 1998 with family, I knew what could happen when the Canadian Shooting Sports Community sets a date to gather. But, during a pandemic and a time of financial hardship for many who have been hit hard by shutdowns and a slowing economy, I was setting my sights low - expecting maybe 1000 members of the Canadian Shooting Sports Community to gather.
Boy was I surprised.
Forget the media reports that have stated 800. If they came to that number based on half an hour before the scheduled time of 1pm, then it would be appropriate, since that's probably close to how many were on The Hill when I arrived.
The crowd really started to fill out as 1pm approached.
Caught up with Dean, who was as taken back by the size of the gathering crowd as I was.
The CCFR supposedly had 2000 wristbands ready for attendees. By the time I arrived, they were all gone. The crowd kept growing even past when Tracey Wilson and Rod Giltaca addressed everyone before the march started.
And then...we walked a 1.5km loop, which included Sparks Street and back to the Hill.
Here is the group arriving back on Parliament Hill. At this point, there were still people on Sparks Street.
And, of course, even though the CBC initially stated that the CCFR didn't respond to an interview request, here is Tracey Wilson being interviewed by the CBC.
Many thanks to the CCFR Volunteers, Tracey Wilson, Rod Giltaca and all who make the trek to Ottawa to represent yourselves and all who could not attend. It was a fantastic day and we are re-energized after seeing so much enthusiasm from our community for our sport.
We're here to serve you at Select Shooting Supplies. Shop online, or in store, where we'll be happy to meet you.
And don't forget - this march was just one tool in the tool box. The fight is far from over. Visit the CCFR's Donation Page to donate towards the legal challenge, right now.
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Originally Posted by SelectRyan
