Nearly five hundred people gathered on Stephen Avenue between 1 St. and 2 St. S.W. to picnic in protest of Alberta’s vaccination passport scheme..Calgary’s “Picnic Protest” resembled similar gatherings that started in France after the country instituted a health pass system that restricted access to bars, restaurants, cinemas and other businesses for unvaccinated people..“Bring your picnic tablecloths and pack a lunch because we are taking over Stephen Avenue” the social media circulated invitation stated..“We’re tired of it,” said a participant, who asked to remain anonymous for fear of losing her job working with children. .“We’re tired of no firm answers, no real research to show these (vaccines) are safe.”.Betty, a retired teacher, spoke with the Western Standard but did not want her last name printed..“I’m the guardian of a person with Down syndrome. She’s a Special Olympics athlete and it’s her whole life. I worry about her getting this shot but I know if she doesn’t, she won’t be able to participate anymore. It’s put me in a really hard position,” Betty said..Although Calgary police and peace officers were nearby for the two-hour duration of the event, it ended without incident..Melanie Risdon is a reporter with the Western Standard.,.mrisdon@westernstandardonline.com
