Winnipeg denies permit for controversial U.S. Christian musician's concert in city's Central Park

The City of Winnipeg says it has denied a parks booking permit for a concert planned by a U.S. Christian musician because of "operational challenges," after some community members worried the event might spur discriminatory rhetoric.

Sean Feucht has advertised a concert in Winnipeg's Central Park on Aug. 20, as part of a Canada-U.S. tour he has described as the country's "hour of awakening" and an opportunity to worship Jesus.

Crown agencies and cities overseeing six public venues in eastern Canada, Quebec and Ontario have recently denied or revoked permits granted to Feucht to host events that were part of his tour — all citing public safety concerns among their reasoning. 

Feucht has been affiliated with the MAGA movement and spoken publicly on his platforms against the 2SLGBTQ+ community as well as against abortion rights. He was also a strong advocate against the closure of places of worship during the COVID-19 pandemic. 

In an emailed statement on Tuesday, a spokesperson said the City of Winnipeg denied the permit requested by Burn 24-7, a worship group founded by Feucht, for the use of Central Park on Ellice Avenue.

"After careful analysis, we've determined it is not operationally feasible to allow the event at Central Park. As this is not in a ticketed event, forecasting attendance is a challenge; that in turn presents additional operational challenges," the statement said.

The spokesperson said on summer days, the small park is "highly utilized" by community members, and many rely on it as a place to gather and play. It's also often used by daycares and day camps — and an influx of the "more than 2,000 people the applicant expects would detract from the service the park provides to area residents."

"Additionally, emergency services has raised concerns that foot traffic, vehicle volumes, and parking utilization could prevent emergency crews from reaching a number of supportive housing residences and personal care homes in the area that have frequent calls for service," the statement said.

In an emailed statement sent through a spokesperson, Winnipeg Mayor Scott Gillingham said he understood the concerns about hosting a large concert in Central Park, "a small space that's heavily used by people living in the area."

"But I think the public service could have worked with organizers to explore more appropriate locations," the mayor's statement said.

CBC News has requested comment from Feucht and and Daniel McIntyre Coun. Cindy Gilroy, who represents the area where the park is.