Don't be surprised if you see a large number of people without masks while shopping at Devonshire Mall Saturday.
A group on Facebook called Questioning Covid Windsor-Essex has planned a group shopping trip at 2 p.m. for all those who choose not to wear a mask, for health reasons or otherwise.
"The goal is not to cause trouble. The goal is to try to go shopping in peace, while breathing and socializing comfortably," said event organizer Currie Soulliere in an online post.
The organizer said she believes anyone is within their right to not wear a mask and they will be shopping at businesses that respect those rights.
On June 26, 2020, Medical Officer of Health Dr. Wajid Ahmed issued the mandatory mask policy for all commercial establishments under Section 22 of the Health Protection and Promotion Act. Under the order, children under the age of two and those who cannot wear a mask due to medical reasons are exempt from the order. People with medical conditions are not required to provide proof of their condition.
"Our exemptions are within the law. If we are turned away, then we are turned away. Individuals may opt to pursue human rights litigation to put right any unjust discrimination," Soulliere said in the post.
Dr. Ahmed said the maskless shopping trip is an unfortunate situation.
"I respect everyone's opinion but [when] it comes to public health, public safety, it doesn't matter. There are rules in place, there are things in place," said Dr. Ahmed. "These rules are for everyone's safety, everyone has their own rights, everyone has the ability to shop, everyone has the ability to go and take care of whatever they need to, whether they are wearing a mask or are unable to wear a mask. There's a huge difference with people who are unable to wear a mask versus people who do not want to wear a mask."
The health unit, along with the City of Windsor bylaw officers and the Windsor police service, have discussed a plan of increased security for Saturday.
"We don't want to be in any type of confrontation situation but I think the bylaw officers, our officers, and police will be there on-site to be sure that the bylaw is followed and any violation would be dealt with accordingly," said Dr. Ahmed.
The shopping trip is not planned for any particular store or mall entry. Organizers do suggest social distancing where ever possible.
