Don Urquhart, Times-Chronicle
As Canadian media continue to face ongoing cases of verbal and physical harassment by so-called ‘freedom’ protesters, a Global News reporter was recently spat upon and had verbal and racial slurs hurled at her at the Osoyoos border.
The incident involving Global Okanagan reporter Yasmin Gandham is being investigated according to Sgt. Jason Bayda, Osoyoos detachment commander, said if the protestors claim to be law-abiding and peaceful then those with information should come forward.
“Spitting is an assault and not something anyone should have to become a victim of simply for doing their job,” Bayda said. “What I suggest is that anyone in that convoy, if they say they want to be lawful and peaceful, if they witness something then they need to reach out because these bad actors are painting the rest of them with the same brush,” he said.
The incident took place on Feb. 19 after the television news crew had decided to pack up and leave after enduring “a lot of profanity being thrown at them and being called fake news.”
Bayda says that as they were leaving the main group of convoy vehicles arrived and the team decide to set up their camera to try and capture the vehicles arriving.
“A middle-aged caucasian man came out of the white motorhome and came over and started yelling things about her appearance, ethnicity and what-have-you, told her she was fake news and spit on her,” Bayda said.
Unfortunately, the cameras were not set up at that time so Bayda says they have no further identification of the person other than what Gandham remembers.
But we do know that many people in that convoy are filming as the convoy progresses so we’re looking to speak to anyone who may have captured that on video or anyone that may have witnessed it and can identify that person.”
He also said that from speaking to the convoy organisers they have indicated “they do not condone any violent behaviour whatsoever.” He also said they understand that some people don’t want them here and that they are causing some disruption but they also have their right to have their voices heard as long as it’s being done lawfully, peacefully and safely.
“So people like these bad actors that join these convoys certainly put a stain on anyone that is trying to be lawful and peaceful,” Bayda added.
Bayda also noted that there was a minority amongst the protesters on Feb. 26 that “showed their displeasure for us being there and for police actions in general across Canada as it pertains to these convoys.” But he emphasized these were a small minority.
Starting from next week the Times-Chronicle will carry a two part special focus on the issue of media harassment and the rise and impact of online disinformation.
