Sundre rodeo parade cancelled amid harassment over rejected pro-Alberta float

The annual Sundre rodeo parade in Alberta, Canada, has been canceled following harassment and threats directed at organizers over a pro-Alberta float that was denied participation. The decision to cancel Saturday's event was made due to concerns about potential disruptions and safety risks.

Darby Crouch, a spokesperson for the event, stated that the float, intended to display numerous Alberta flags, was excluded by parade organizers who aimed to remain apolitical. This decision led to a barrage of emails and messages to board members, including a threat that 1,000 protesters would disrupt the parade.

Despite the organizers eventually apologizing and inviting the float back, it was too late to salvage the parade. Several volunteers and other floats withdrew, making it clear that the event could not proceed safely. "It's not worth it this year. It's too much of a risk," Crouch said, emphasizing that the decision was not taken lightly.

The Sundre Pro Rodeo and Race Association posted on Facebook that the volume of online criticism, personal attacks, and abusive messages directed at volunteers had become overwhelming. They clarified that the cancellation was not a statement about any political viewpoint but a response to the hostility that continued to grow even after attempts to resolve the issue with the float organizers.

The rodeo event, which attracts nearly 10,000 attendees annually, will still take place as scheduled, including a pancake breakfast. The cancellation of the parade comes as Alberta's debate over secession from Canada intensifies, following Premier Danielle Smith's announcement of a vote on whether to remain in the country or pursue a referendum on secession.

“

It's not worth it this year. It's too much of a risk.