City of Toronto Revokes Eritrea Festival Permit After Violent Clashes Leave 9 Injured

Toronto Police work the scene of a protest that turned violent in Earlscourt Park in Toronto on Aug. 5 2023. Police said one person was stabbed and eight others injured during a protest in the city’s west end. The Canadian Press/Arlyn McAdorey

The city of Toronto has announced it has revoked the licence for Festival Eritrea following an outbreak of violence between festival attendees and protesters over the weekend.

“The City of Toronto is aware of violent incidents that took place today at Earlscourt Park and a protest at the site continued to unfold. In the interest of public safety, the City has revoked the festival’s permit at Earlscourt Park,” the City of Toronto said in a statement on Aug. 5.