Anti-hate rally held at Hamilton City Hall as Dominion Society conference proceeds

An anti-hate rally was held at Hamilton City Hall Saturday to promote inclusion and oppose racism and bigotry.

This comes after an anti-immigrant group was forced to move its first-ever conference out of Hamilton due to weeks of pressure from city leaders and police.

Saturday’s Hope Not Hate rally was organized by a community coalition that includes the Hamilton & District Labour Council, the Hamilton Centre for Civic Inclusion, the Hamilton Anti-Racism Resource Centre and other grassroots organizations.

Hamilton Mayor Andrea Horwath was also in attendance, along with mayoral candidate Keanin Loomis and Coun. Cameron Kroetsch.

Families brought their children, while attendees used the opportunity to meet and get to know one another.

“Hope Not Hate” rally signs carrying messages of inclusion and solidarity were also displayed along Main Street.

More than 200 people turned out for the rally.

Booths offered community information and resources, along with activities for children promoting messages of love and inclusion.

The atmosphere was light and upbeat, with music playing as people gathered and connected.

WATCH MORE: Anti-immigration group moves planned conference out of Hamilton amid pressure