Toronto Police Arrest Six During Duelling Immigration Rallies

Toronto police arrested six people during a confrontation between an anti-immigration rally and a counter-protest at Christie Pits Park. The anti-immigration event, organized by the far-right group Canada First, aimed to stop what they called "mass immigration" and called for putting Canadian people and country first, citing concerns about resource strain. Hundreds of pro-immigration counter-protesters, including labor unions and community groups, vastly outnumbered the rally participants and emphasized solidarity with migrants through family-friendly activities, live music, and speeches. The situation escalated as counter-protesters surrounded the Canada First supporters, chanting against hate groups, and police escorted the smaller group out of the park amid cheers. Police reported arrests related to criminal behavior and one man was specifically arrested for assault. Both rallies highlighted deep divisions over immigration policies, with counter-protesters rejecting the blame placed on immigrants for social problems and celebrating the park's history as a space for anti-fascist organizing and diverse community support.