A far-left student organization at McGill University is organizing an “anti-Canada Day” barbecue and fundraiser in Montreal, coinciding with the July 1 national holiday.
The Quebec Public Interest Research Group (QPIRG) is funded by mandatory student fees.
The event, promoted on social media by QPIRG at McGill (QPIRG-McGill), is titled a “Decolonial Anti-Canada Day BBQ and Fundraiser” and is scheduled to take place from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. at Parc Jeanne-Mance.
According to the group’s public Instagram post, the gathering will feature food, including vegan and gluten-friendly options, and participation from advocacy organizations such as the Palestinian Feminist Collective, Spring Magazine Network, the Health Workers Alliance for Palestine, and the Mohawk Mothers.
Organizers state that proceeds from the event will support “local decolonial struggles,” but have not specified the intended recipients of the funds.
Canada Day, observed annually on July 1, commemorates the anniversary of Confederation in 1867. In recent years, some activist organizations across the country have used the day to demonize Canada’s history.
The event announcement occurs amidst a broader national discussion regarding the role of public institutions in supporting events that are critical of Canadian nationhood.
This July 1 BBQ is one of several “anti-Canada Day” events planned across the country.
Notably, the Barbecue will be held on July 1st, while the official Canada Day parade in Montreal will be cancelled this year, marking the second consecutive year that the city’s main Canada Day celebration will not proceed.