Calgary Preacher Faces New Trial After Drag Event Protest Acquittal
Calgary preacher Derek Reimer is set to face a new trial next spring, reigniting discussions in the city surrounding free speech and public demonstration. Reimer, who was originally acquitted of mischief and causing a disturbance following a protest at a drag library event on February 25, 2023, saw that acquittal successfully appealed by the Crown.
The Alberta Court of Appeal recently denied Reimer's bid to halt further proceedings on November 6, 2025, paving the way for his retrial scheduled for April 27-29, 2026. This development stems from a 2023 incident at a "Reading with Royalty" event at the Calgary Public Library, a program designed to "celebrate inclusion and diversity" through family-friendly story times led by local drag performers. The event, like others across the city, drew protests from individuals concerned about the content of the readings.
The original charges against Reimer stemmed from his disruption of the event, where a prosecutor argued his actions crossed a criminal line, while his defence contended it was merely a "distraction." In response to escalating protests at library drag events, Calgary City Council passed the Safe and Inclusive Access Bylaw on March 14, 2023. This bylaw prohibits specific types of protests within 100 metres of entrances to recreation facilities or libraries during operating hours, particularly those objecting to ideas or actions related to human rights grounds. The bylaw itself has been the subject of a legal challenge by the Canadian Constitution Foundation, which argues it is a "clear violation of the rights to freedom of expression and assembly" and that "there is no right not to be offended."
This ongoing legal battle underscores the complex balance Calgary faces in upholding Charter rights to freedom of expression and peaceful assembly while ensuring safe and inclusive access to public spaces for all residents. The upcoming retrial will undoubtedly remain a focal point in the city's ongoing discourse on civic freedoms and public order.
