Freedom Convoy 2022 drives through Smithers on the way to Parliament Hill

Northern B.C. truckers have joined a freedom convoy that will be heading to Ottawa to protest recent mandates for truck drivers.

Canadian truck drivers crossing into Canada from the United States must be vaccinated against COVID-19 to avoid quarantine and testing requirements.

This came into effect on January 15.

Many community members gathered along the highway 16 corridor in the Smithers area to show solidarity for Northwest truckers heading to parliament hill.

The convoy left from Prince Rupert this morning (Saturday) and drove through Smithers around 1 p.m where horns were honked and cheering took place.

It is expected to reach Prince George this evening and will then head towards Calgary, A.B tomorrow (Sunday).

Additionally, a GoFundMe has been started for the Freedom Convoy 2022 and has raised over $1.5 million dollars which will go towards fuel, food and lodging.

“We are taking our fight to the doorsteps of our Federal Government and demanding that they cease all mandates against its people. Small businesses are being destroyed, homes are being destroyed, and people are being mistreated and denied fundamental necessities to survive,” said the GoFundMe page.

It is expected the convoy will reach Ottawa on January 29.