Freedom to Gather: Building Community Through Assembly

!!! quote "Alberta Community Philosophy" "Real freedom includes the right to come together - and not just for hockey games and stampedes."

Call Mike Ellis, Minister of Public Safety{ .md-button } Email Minister about Assembly Rights{ .md-button }

Call Dan Williams, Minister of Municipal Affairs{ .md-button } Email Minister about Community Spaces{ .md-button }

Why Gathering Matters

In an age of digital isolation and social distancing, the freedom to gather has never been more important. It's about more than just meeting up - it's about building the foundations of community action and social change.

The Power of Assembly

!!! info "Key Benefits of Gathering" - Building real-world connections - Sharing ideas face-to-face - Creating community resilience - Organizing for change - Celebrating diversity - Supporting local culture

Types of Gatherings

Community Gatherings

Town halls and community meetings
Cultural celebrations
Block parties and street festivals
Community gardens
Mutual aid networks

Political Assembly

Peaceful protests
Community organizing meetings
Public forums
Citizen committees

!!! warning "Remember" Freedom to gather comes with responsibility. Respect others, respect spaces, and remember that peaceful assembly is the key.

Creating Safe Spaces

!!! tip "Best Practices" - Ensure accessibility for all - Provide inclusive facilities - Consider safety measures - Respect noise ordinances - Have clear communication channels - Plan for emergencies

The Impact of Gathering

When communities gather:

Ideas spread
Movements grow
Change happens
Democracy strengthens
Culture thrives

!!! note "Get Started" Want to organize a gathering? Start small, think inclusive, and remember: every great movement started with people simply coming together.

Sources & Evidence

Assembly Rights in Alberta

The Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms protects freedom of peaceful assembly (Section 2(c))
Municipal bylaws can regulate but not prohibit peaceful gatherings
Police must balance public safety with assembly rights
Source: Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms

Public Space Access

Community hall and recreation centre fees have increased in many municipalities
Public library meeting room access has been reduced due to funding cuts
Parks and public spaces face increasing restrictions
Source: Federation of Canadian Municipalities

Protest Rights

Alberta's Critical Infrastructure Defence Act (2020) created new restrictions on protests near infrastructure
Environmental and Indigenous rights protesters face enhanced penalties
Police kettling and mass arrest tactics have been used against peaceful protesters
Source: Alberta Civil Liberties Research Centre

Community Organizing

Labour organizing faces challenges under Alberta's employment laws
Non-profit organizations face increased reporting requirements
Charitable status rules limit political advocacy
Source: Muttart Foundation - Non-Profit Sector Research

Digital Gathering Alternatives

Rural broadband gaps limit virtual gathering options for many communities
Digital divide affects participation in online town halls and consultations
Privacy concerns exist around government monitoring of online organizing
Source: Canadian Internet Registration Authority

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