Large freedom convoy and rally in Sarnia today

George Mathewson A large rally to demand freedom from government pandemic restrictions brought sections of Sarnia to a near standstill today.

George Mathewson

A large rally to demand freedom from government pandemic restrictions brought sections of Sarnia to a near standstill today.

Hundreds of horn-honking transport trucks and flag-waving pickups blocked westbound Highway 402 and formed convoys that snarled traffic in parts of Sarnia, including Exmouth, Christina and Front streets.

Another convoy comprised largely of farm vehicles stretched for about a kilometre at the approach to the Blue Water Bridge.

At City Hall, more than 100 people gathered to cheer on motorists as they drove through the downtown core, honking horns and waving Canadian flags.

Participants said they are fed up with government restrictions, vaccine passport mandates, and ongoing border restrictions. Some said they are also angry at mainstream media outlets for what they called unfair and one-sided reporting.

The protest was by far the largest “freedom convoy” in Sarnia to date.

Lambton OPP closed westbound Highway 402 between the bridge and Modeland Road. Commercial traffic was diverted to the U.S. border crossing at Windsor.

Although a few verbal exchanges were heard between protesters and passing motorists, the event appeared to be peaceful and the participants friendly.