A march in Chatham to show solidarity with the fight against systemic discrimination, anti-black racism, and police brutality will be allowed to go ahead even though it violates provincial COVID-19 emergency orders.
The Chatham-Kent Police Service said on Thursday that it has been working with the Chatham-Kent Supports Black Lives Matter organizers to ensure public and pedestrian safety.
"We acknowledge and respect the right for individuals to be heard and bring these important issues to the forefront of our community, in a peaceful and respectful manner," said police chief Gary Conn. "We further recognize the dangers associated to participants in this march amid a pandemic, but organizers and police have been in contact with Public Health to ensure COVID precautions are in place."
CK Public Health and police are encouraging people to bring their own masks. The local public health unit has some safety tips for those who want to show support during COVID-19.
Medical Officer of Health Dr. David Colby said he totally supports racial equality but reminds the public that the black community and other minority communities have been hit harder by the virus.
"Racially diverse neighbourhoods [in Ontario], especially in large cities, have much higher rates of hospitalization, ICU admittance, infection with COVID-19, and have a two times higher death rate as well," he said.
Colby emphasized that physical distancing will be of "crucial importance" during the march to prevent the spread of COVID-19. He added that he is concerned, not worried, the march will accelerate the spread of the virus if strict health and safety precautions are not followed.
"It doesn't do anybody any good if this serves as a source of infection for people," added Colby. "I want everybody in this community to be safe. We have to keep in mind that the elderly as well as minorities seem to be at higher risk of trouble and whatever we do, we have to do it safely."
Organizers said they will also be ensuring everyone maintains a distance of two metres between each other and they strongly encourage that those attending bring protective gear. Organizers added some masks will be available for those who don't have them. They are also welcoming people to drive along side if they wish to practice physical distancing from their vehicle.
The march will start at the WISH Centre at 177 King Street in Chatham beginning at 7 p.m.