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Saskatoon Mayor Cynthia Block has posted a video to social media addressing questions and concerns about a concert that’s scheduled to take place in Saskatoon on Aug. 21.
Controversial MAGA U.S. Christian pastor and singer Sean Feucht has been granted a permit by the city to hold a concert at Diefenbaker Park as part of his “BURN Canada” tour.
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However, Feucht’s past comments towards the LGBTQ2S+ community have garnered fierce criticism, and several of his concerts in other Canadian cities have been cancelled in recent weeks. However, that’s not the case in Saskatoon.
In a YouTube video dated Aug. 7, Feucht says he’s been to other countries, but in Canada he’s faced “persecution,” “governmental tyranny,” and “heavy Christian bias.”
“I’ve worshiped in Turkey, in Israel, In Iraq. I’ve gone into Mozambique and all different parts of the world and the biggest and most fierce resistance that I’ve faced has actually been in Canada.”
He goes on to accuse an “LGTBQ (sic) mafia,” of showing up at his events.
In a video statement, Block said Feucht’s comments are not only hurtful, but they also go against everything the city stands for.
“To be frank, I wish I could cancel it,” she said. “I’ve seen some of what this performer has said in other places and, honestly, it’s abhorrent.”
However, Block also said the Charter protects freedom of expression, even when the message is offensive or upsetting.
“That protection isn’t about agreeing with what’s said, it’s about making sure everyone’s rights are upheld no matter what.”
Saskatoon Mayor Cynthia Block at her desk at Saskatoon City Hall. (Lara Fominoff/650 CKOM)
Block explained that every city works with different legal advice, policies and timelines, and she is also working with city administration and Saskatoon police to figure out whether the conditions allowing the upcoming concert are still justified.
She’s also planning on introducing a motion to council to review how events are permitted on city property, but didn’t say when that would happen.
“So the situation is evolving, and I will continue to speak out against hate, respect the Charter, and work with city administration, Saskatoon Police service and my colleagues on city council to make sure we make the best decisions possible for our community.”
A “Say no to Sean Feucht” peaceful picnic and sit-in is being planned as well on Aug.21, at the same park where the concert is scheduled to take place.
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