STAND UP - SHOW UP - OTTAWA
"FASCISM ADVANCES WHEN GOOD PEOPLE STAY HOME”
CANTIFA is a grassroots community group based in Ottawa, Ontario. We organize peaceful, legal demonstrations to oppose the normalization of fascist ideology. We are non-violent, and open to all who share our commitment to democratic values.
We believe that showing up — in person, peacefully, and in numbers — is one of the most powerful things a citizen can do. Every action we take is grounded in respect for the law and for each other.
We have rallies every Saturday, 2-3 pm and every Wednesday, 12:30-1:30 pm rain or shine, across from the American Embassy, Mackenzie Avenue, Ottawa, Ontario, at the entrance to Major‘s Hill Park
JOIN US!
In early 2025, a small group of Ottawa activists knew they had to do something to support our American neighbours stand against fascism. It was the right thing to do. Many Canadians have family and friends in the US, so this was and is personal. Soon after came the tariffs and threats of “51st state” directed at Canada from our former friendly neighbour.
The first weekly rally was in February, 2025 and will continue until democracy is restored in the USA.
Authorities on fascism have identified humour and joy as effective weapons against tyranny. Our “die-hards” show up with a smile even in freezing rain. Our resident performance artist dances on Saturdays in a full “Trump” costume.
After over a year of twice-weekly protest rallies, we recently adopted the name CANTIFA. It stands for Antifa(schism), with a nod to Canada, Canuck, and Canine (we have several four-legged protesters).
CANTIFA often partners for rallies with other Ottawa protest groups such as Indivisible Ottawa, the Russian Embassy Protesters and Fight Ford.
One of the best parts of the rallies is when visitors, many from the US, stop and thank us for standing in solidarity with them.
“A young man stopped to mention that he thought most people would not bother attending protests because they are too preoccupied with life, even though standing up to fascism was so important. I invited him to borrow a sign and join us for a few minutes. He said he would, except that he was on his way to get an ice cream.”
“Yesterday, within the span of an hour, a large, lively group of folks from the Czech Republic stopped, hugged, took pictures with us and thanked us.
A lady, originally from Germany, now living in New Zealand with family in France, stopped, thanked us and took pictures.
A group of American tourists passing by thanked us. “This means a lot. We’re American.” I told them that they made our day.
An American family also stopped and chatted and took pictures. “Where are you folks from?” “We’re from a place called Georgia.” I then showed off by naming Georgia’s two democratic senators (Raphael Warnock and Jon Ossoff). “Oh, so you do know about us!” They expressed gratitude for our standing with them.
A couple stopped and chatted. I asked her where they were visiting from. “Montreal. But I’m from Guatemala and my husband is American.” I told them that I was very glad that they are here in Canada.
That’s just one day.
It makes me feel good that these visitors to Ottawa will return home feeling supported in the fight against tyranny. And they leave us Canadian protesters feeling the same.
As several friends so beautifully put it, we are holding one another’s hands all around the world.”
“Sometimes you just never know how your words or your actions can affect others. I have been publicly protesting trump and his administration for the past 15 months. It is very clear where I stand. I support the Amazing American People who do NOT support trump. I have American relatives all over the USA. Unfortunately a small number of my relatives are trump supporters. But I hold my ground and have no issues with standing up to their racist, disrespectful, cult like mentality. And yes.... I have even lost a few family relationships over these moral differences.
Why is it so important to me to stand up for what I believe in? Because when a couple of American cousins contact me privately to thank me:
-for being so public with my views
- for saying out loud what they want to say but are too afraid for their safety
- for feeling supported
- for protesting in the street when they are afraid to put their family at risk if they do the same
- for standing up for women's rights
- for standing up for all human rights
When someone takes time to thank me, I feel like I am making a difference. I am standing up for myself, for my children and for anyone else who might need a voice.”
“It's the little things that make me smile and warm my heart when I attend one of our weekly protest against the trump administration.
- One of our signs says "HONK IF YOU WANT TRUMP ARRESTED". Well we get lots of honking cars and truck and I love to hear each one. But I really giggle when someone goes by on a bike and rings the little bike bell. 😅”
”July 4, 2026. At the same time we were there, members of the Iranian community were holding their own rally. They were celebrating and expressing gratitude to the United States and President Trump for what they saw as an effort to help liberate their country from the current regime. Whether others agree with that perspective or not, it comes from people who have endured decades of hardship under that government.
Aside from a few rude comments and the occasional raised middle finger, everyone was respectful toward one another. We had several meaningful conversations with Iranian participants. Out of respect, we stayed in the background and chose not to display large signs that might antagonize Trump supporters. There were no chants, no music—just people quietly holding their signs.
It was remarkable how two groups, with very different perspectives on today’s world, chose to celebrate the Fourth of July standing side by side in peace. One to thank America. The other, to urge it to regain its independence from a tyrant.
We shared popsicles, conversations, and, above all, a hope for a better future.”
”As we were packing up yesterday, a mom and her teenage daughter approached me and asked me to explain to her daughter what fascism is and what we are doing through our protests. I stumbled through a quick explanation and thanked the daughter for her interest and curiosity and invited her to attend our regular protests. She said that her friends and peers are quite interested in the subject and are fired up about Trump's actions, which was good to hear.”
FIRST STEPS
It starts with a fire in your belly. You feel compelled to do more than doomscrolling and cursing at MS Now but don’t know where to start. Haul yourself off the couch. There is so much outrage to pick from. Pick yours.
Next, a trip to the dollar store for poster board, markers, paints, flags etc, then unleash your inner Banksy. Pro tip-keep your written message large, with dark (or outlined in dark) lettering, and brief. Drivers can only take in a few words.
Identify a safe, busy, meaningful public space in which to stand. If you live near an Embassy or Consulate, this is great but not essential. The entrance to a park will do.
Passing cars honking in support of your cause is very empowering.
While it is not strictly necessary, inviting a friend or two to join you makes it more fun and boosts your confidence, especially at the start.
Last-just show up. Staying an hour is plenty. Have fun. Enjoy the honks. Repeat. ✌️
NEXT LEVEL TIPS
Be aware of new Canadian legislation surrounding protesting. These stronger protections rightfully make it a crime to intimidate or obstruct people from accessing places where communities gather, including places of worship, schools, and community centres.
Hopefully, you don’t want to do that anyway.
Create a simple poster on your computer with information about where and when you are doing your protests. If you wish to do it on a regular basis, then show this. Spread it around on social media, including our Facebook page (Anti Trump protests Canada).
Use the word ’rally’ instead of ‘protest’ to avoid getting flagged on social media.
Wrapping your posters in clear packing tape protects them from the elements.
Dress for the weather and bring water in hot weather. A clear rain poncho is a good thing to have in your backpack.
If you think there might be more than a few people, let the police know. They are there to help you.
Connect with other protest groups in your area. You will find folks with overlapping interests love to support one another.
Remain peaceful. Ignore counter protesters.
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