.jpg)
The City of Winnipeg has denied a permit for American Christian musician Sean Feucht to hold a concert in Central Park, citing safety concerns and the need to protect inclusive public spaces.
Feucht, whose Revive in 25 tour has sparked protests and permit cancellations across Canada, was scheduled to perform in the downtown park later this summer. But city councillor Cindy Gilroy, whose ward includes Central Park, announced on Tuesday that the application had been rejected following a "thorough review."
"Central Park is one of our city’s most cherished green spaces," Gilroy wrote in a statement. "It’s vibrant, diverse, and deeply rooted in the life of the neighbourhood. It is not the place for events that threaten to disrupt its spirit or compromise the safety and well-being of those who rely on it every day."
Gilroy said the decision was partly based on logistical concerns, noting the park is heavily used during summer by families, daycares and local residents. But she also emphasized a broader concern over public safety and human rights.
"Public spaces must be protected from rhetoric that fuels division, targets vulnerable communities or undermines human dignity," she said. “I am committed to fostering a city grounded in compassion, inclusion, and unity."
Feucht, a former Bethel Church worship leader and outspoken supporter of Christian nationalism, has attracted criticism for statements on abortion, LGBTQ+ rights and gender identity. He has also faced scrutiny over the political tone of his worship events, as he aligns himself with the MAGA movement and Christian dominionism. Some Christian leaders say he conflates faith with far-right activism.
While the city has denied access to Central Park, it’s still possible the concert could proceed at a privately owned venue or church if an alternative location is found.
The group that initially helped organize the event quietly stepped back from planning earlier this month, citing concerns over how divisive Feucht had become and recent allegations against him of spiritual abuse and misappropriating millions of dollars in donations to his ministries.
Feucht’s events in Halifax, Quebec City, Gatineau, Vaughan and Montreal have all faced similar pushback in recent days, with some shows cancelled and others moved to church spaces. His next scheduled performances are set for Ontario and Western Canada in August.
In recent days, Feucht has taken to social media to portray the cancellation of his Canadian concerts as evidence of "Christian persecution" and government overreach.
Following his performance in Montreal, which went ahead at a church after having a permit revoked for a park performance, Feucht claimed two smoke bombs were thrown at him and accused Canadian authorities of "tyranny and censorship." The church that hosted the event was also fined for failing to have a permit for a concert, the City of Montreal alleged.
"Every Canadian should be embarrassed/concerned with this. No bigger scandal in Canada," Feucht wrote on X. In a separate video, he described his tour as being under attack from "a couple crazy activists" and vowed to continue despite the "firestorm."