Federal and local law enforcement officials have designated three official protest zones in Banff and Calgary ahead of next month’s G7 Leaders’ Summit in Kananaskis.
The Integrated Safety and Security Group (ISSG), led by the RCMP, confirmed Thursday that demonstrators will be permitted to gather at:
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Municipal Plaza (800 Macleod Trail S.E., Calgary)
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Enoch/East Victoria Park (1102 Macleod Trail S.E., Calgary)
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Fenlands Banff Recreation Centre (100 Norquay Rd., Banff)
Each site is located in an accessible area outside the Controlled Access Zone (CAZ) perimeter and will include infrastructure to broadcast messages to international leaders.
A fourth protest area will also be made available at the Edward H. LaBorde Viewing Area, near Calgary International Airport. That location will not be linked to summit broadcast systems.
The Banff location was changed from Central Park after community concerns about traffic congestion, public safety and disruptions to tourism. The RCMP said the new site was selected in consultation with the Town of Banff and offers visibility to the main route leading to the G7 International Media Centre.
“The ISSG recognized that there were concerns from the town of Banff and together, we worked to find a solution that maintains public safety while respecting peaceful demonstrations,” said Chief Superintendent David Hall, G7 Event Security Director for the RCMP. “If any unlawful activity occurs, our team will assess the situation on a case-by-case basis.”
“The public can expect to see large police presence from both regular duty CPS members along with the Public Safety Unit to ensure the safety of all,” said Superintendent Joe Brar, Calgary Police Service G7 Event Security Director. “We are committed to working with organizers to ensure all demonstrations are lawful, peaceful and safe while minimizing community disruption. Any behaviour that is unlawful or jeopardizes public safety will be addressed in accordance with the law.”
Officials said the designated zones were chosen based on their visibility, media access and ability to safely accommodate large crowds. Each of the three broadcast-enabled sites will allow demonstrators’ messages to be relayed to G7 leaders and delegations in Kananaskis.
“We will take a measured, proportionate approach to protests and will take enforcement action only when necessary to maintain public order or respond to criminal activity,” Hall said.
The ISSG includes the RCMP, Calgary Police Service, Alberta Sheriffs, Alberta Conservation Officers and the Canadian Armed Forces. It is responsible for coordinating public safety and security for the G7 summit with support from municipal and federal partners.
The G7—short for Group of Seven—is an annual meeting of leaders from Canada, the United States, United Kingdom, France, Germany, Italy and Japan. Canada holds the rotating presidency in 2025, and this year’s summit runs June 15–17 in Kananaskis.
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