GoFundMe has removed the Freedom Convoy 2022 fundraiser from its website after learning about reports of harassment and violence associated with the protests in Ottawa.
The company announced Friday evening that it has spoken with local law enforcement and city officials in Ottawa and has determined the fundraiser is now in violation of its terms of service that prohibits the promotion of violence or harassment.
"GoFundMe supports peaceful protests and we believe that was the intention of the Freedom Convoy 2022 fundraiser when it was first created," read a statement on the crowdfunding platform's website. "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."
Before the fundraiser was removed, over $10-million had been contributed to the campaign by over 120,000 donors. $1-million was released to organizers by GoFundMe earlier in the week to be used for participants who had travelled to Ottawa to protest peacefully.
"Given how this situation has evolved, no further funds will be directly distributed to the Freedom Convoy organizers — we will work with organizers to send all remaining funds to credible and established charities verified by GoFundMe," the company's statement added.
Initially, the company said donors would have until February 19 to submit a request for a full refund. However, in order to simplify the process, refunds will now happen automatically. GoFundMe posted on Twitter Saturday morning, that donors can expect to receive a refund within seven to 10 business days.
To simplify the process for our users, we will be refunding all donations to the Freedom Convoy 2022 fundraiser. This refund will happen automatically—you do not need to submit a request. Donors can expect to see refunds within 7-10 business days.
— GoFundMe (@gofundme) February 5, 2022