Pro-Palestinian Protests Disrupt Saskatchewan Legislature

Dozens of protesters fill the entrance to the Saskatchewan Legislature in Regina on Nov. 20, 2023, calling for a ceasefire in Gaza and disrupting the legislature. The Canadian Press/Jeremy Simes

A pro-Palestinian rally at the Saskatchewan Legislature on Nov. 20 caused disruption and forced a recess while security disbanded the crowd.

The incident happened during question period as protesters interrupted the session with shouts of “ceasefire now.”

The protests were in response to military action Israel has taken since Hamas terrorists killed 1,200 Israelis during a surprise attack on Oct. 7.

Speaker Randy Weekes called for order twice, but the protesters did not quiet down. He then called for security.

NDP MLA Jennifer Bowes stood up to show support for the protesters.

When the crowd began to chant louder, Mr. Weekes called for a recess and directed the MLAs to leave the chamber.

Saskatchewan Party members left swiftly, but the official opposition NDP did so more reluctantly.

The rally started outside the legislature in Regina, according to the CBC, and “several dozen people” went into the public gallery where they proceeded to disrupt the sitting.

CBC News says that security asked the group to leave and they complied.

Saskatchewan Premier Scott Moe previously announced $100,000 in aid after the Israel attacks. His government has also made Holocaust education mandatory for Grade 10 students.

NDP Leader Carla Beck has previously called for a ceasefire so that humanitarian aid could reach Gaza.

“We see a growing humanitarian catastrophe today in Gaza,” she said. “We join in calls for an immediate ceasefire and for free flow of humanitarian aid to provide medical supplies, food, fuel, and water to Gazans.”

Ms. Beck also acknowledged the tragedy in Israel.

“October 7th was the deadliest day for Jewish people since the Holocaust. More than 1,200 Israelis were killed by Hamas, and 240 Israeli civilians remain hostages,” she said. “To our fellow Saskatchewan residents from the Jewish community, we grieve this tragic loss with you and we reiterate our call for an immediate release of all hostages.”

A deal is underway to release some of the hostages, according to Reuters. A source familiar with the negotiations said Hamas would free 50 women and children, including some foreigners, while Israel is expected to release 150 Palestinian prisoners, mostly women and minors, during a four-day ceasefire.

The Canadian Press contributed to this report.