Protests persist at border bridge, Windsor mayor to seek injunction

Officials looked to the courts Thursday to put an end to what they called an “illegal occupation” at the foot of the Ambassador Bridge, as protesters made themselves comfortable days into a demonstration that’s largely shut down one of Canada’s busiest border crossings.

Dozens who showed up to protest COVID-19 measures lounged on couches set up on the street, played ball hockey and blasted music from their speakers while the City of Windsor and an automotive industry group sought an injunction they hoped would put an end to the demonstration-turned-tailgate.

“To those who are thinking about joining the protest, let me just say this: you are not welcome here,” Windsor Mayor Drew Dilkens said at a news conference.

“I’m hopeful that the facts of this application speak clearly to the court about the need for intervention.”

Dilkens said protesters were trespassing on municipal property and could be removed to allow for the safe and efficient movement of goods across the border. He added that he remained hopeful for a peaceful resolution to the protest that began on Monday in solidarity with one in Ottawa.

Superior Court Justice Geoffrey Morawetz said he would hear the injunction application from the Automotive Parts Manufacturers’ Association — in which the city was granted intervenor status — this Friday afternoon, rather than proceeding immediately as requested.

“I do not discount the economic impact arising from the plaintiffs’ claims,” he said. “However, the relief sought is serious in nature and in my view, this proceeding should be adjourned for a short period of time so as to permit the matter to come to the attention of the defendants.”

More than 10 big rigs and 70 pickup trucks have been stationed at the Windsor end of the border crossing, blocking both directions of a street that connects with the bridge. Canada-bound traffic from Detroit has been blocked for days, while limited U.S. bound traffic is making its way over the span.

Protesters danced, waved flags — Canadian and American alike — and cheered each other on.

Local and provincial police were stationed nearby, blocking protesters from driving more cars into the area but allowing people to join on foot.

Meanwhile, Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer said the protest is hurting “Michigan’s working families who are just trying to do their jobs,” noting the Ambassador Bridge is the busiest land border crossing in North America.