The Ottawa People’s Commission (OPC)
The OPC held its final public hearing on December 10, marking Human Rights Day. It was the last of 13 public hearings that took place both in-person and online.
The commission has heard from over 200 residents who have bravely shared the impact of huge trucks blocking streets, spewing exhaust fumes, unrelenting honking, and harassment and intimidation during the convoy occupation.
Alex Neve, one of the four commissioners of the OPC and former secretary general of the Canadian branch of Amnesty International, said: “So much of the testimony we’ve been hearing focuses on how slogans, flags, symbols and chants, and racism and hate – literally terrorizing people – were some of the key factors keeping a lot of people trapped in their homes.”
At the final hearing, the OPC heard testimony from former Somerset Ward councillor Catherine McKenney, who many residents said played a key role in organizing safety walks, delivering groceries, and advocating for the safety of residents.
The OPC continues to invite written statements from the community. People can share their experience of the occupation as well as their recommendations for action at info@opc-cpo.ca
In order to build a timeline of the occupation from the community’s perspective, the OPC is also crowd-sourcing photos, videos, and social media posts. Folks can see what their neighbours have posted to date and learn more about making a submission by visiting OPC’s website at opc-cpo.ca
The commission will release an interim report early next year to mark the first anniversary of the convoy. A final report including recommendations will follow in the spring.
The OPC is also pleased to announce generous funding from the Ottawa Community Foundation. These funds are vital to support our work and ensure the voice of the community is heard.
The commission is funded by donations from the public, foundations, businesses, unions, and local agencies committed to rebuilding and renewing our community. You are encouraged to donate through the commission’s website.