Canadian journalist detained during pro-Palestine protest faces legal uncertainty, defends press freedom
When I went out, people stopped me to discuss my arrest. Although each interaction was kind and sweet, I felt overwhelmed. I love being a journalist, but I did not choose this profession for fame. Instead, my apprehension blurred the line between my private and professional life. As a result, everyone who sees me now recognizes me as the journalist who was arrested.
- 4 weeks ago
September 9, 2024
On April 15, 2024, Savanna Craig, a Canadian reporter for CUTV, was detained along with the protesters at a pro-Palestine demonstration at the Scotiabank headquarters in downtown Montreal, Canada. | Photo courtesy of Savanna Craig
MONTREAL, Canada — On April 15, 2024, I covered a peaceful protest where 44 activists gathered outside a Scotiabank branch to show their support for Palestine. As they started with a sit-in, I filmed the event on my cell phone, as I always do. A few minutes later, the police arrived and calmly surrounded the area, without any visible tension on either side.
As the sole journalist on the scene, I presented my press pass to the police to avoid being confused with an activist. I continued uploading videos on Instagram, reporting what I saw and what the activists demanded. When the police asked me to move to a specific area, I complied. I remained calm, as I did during other coverages until the police approached me. Unexpectedly, without giving a reason, the police officers told me they were detaining me.
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Journalist faces legal uncertainty after detention at protest
As a journalist, I focus on covering news that mainstream media often misrepresents, especially issues related to Palestine. Since October 7, 2023, I have attended many pro-Palestinian demonstrations in Montreal. These gatherings brim with passion, frustration, and sadness, creating a unique energy as people unite for a cause they believe is just. Individuals from diverse backgrounds come together, fostering a sense of community that always feels exciting.
While these demonstrations generally remain peaceful, tension sometimes flares up, especially when pro-Israel demonstrations occur nearby. Then, the police intensify their efforts to separate both groups, creating an atmosphere where conflicts may arise. I have become accustomed to these situations and learned to navigate away from the most conflict-prone areas. As a journalist, I used to feel safe but that changed a few months ago.
On April 15, while covering a pro-Palestine demonstration outside a Scotiabank branch, police officers abruptly detained me. Since then, I faced an unfair and uncomfortable situation that no journalist should ever experience.
Anxiously, I await news on whether authorities will press criminal charges against me for simply performing my press duties. I remember similar cases involving other journalists this year. Despite Canada’s commitment to press freedom, authorities have charged several of my colleagues for their work. Although these charges often do not lead to severe consequences, they serve to intimidate.
As the officers apprehended me, I kept thinking, “How can I be detained, if I identify myself as a journalist?”
Despite knowing the risks associated with my work, such incidents always surprise and bother me. As the officers apprehended me, I kept thinking, “How can I be detained, if I identify myself as a journalist?” I felt anger and believed an injustice occurred. Distress overwhelmed me as I questioned the implications for my profession and press freedom in my country.
Internally, I did not feel nervous or scared. Having no time to focus on my emotions; I dealt with the situation and faced it head-on. Instantly, I resumed filming the protesters and collecting testimonies. I noticed the bank tellers’ nervous faces, trying to gauge their feelings. Outside the glass, I saw another protest. I swiftly regained control and continued my work.
In those confusing moments, I felt like I operated on three planes simultaneously. One part of me recorded and observed everything around me, while another part handled the police’s accusations and actions against me. Meanwhile, a smaller part of me processed my emotions or set them aside for later.
After a few minutes, the police escorted me out of the bank. Outside, I stayed a while longer to cover the street protest. I spoke with a few people to understand why they were there and what they hoped to achieve. Then, I went home.
Journalist remains committed to advocating for press freedom amidst public scrutiny following arrest
A few hours later, I finally found time to reflect on what happened. I called a group of women journalists for advice. Their words and my recounting of the experience helped me process my feelings. It was not just about the legal aspect; I suddenly felt exposed to public opinion. Various media outlets spread the news about my arrest, prompting me to consider my safety measures.
I resumed covering demonstrations, as I did for years. I am not afraid it will happen again, but I worry about the effectiveness of my press pass. Initially, I always believed that presenting my credentials allowed me to work in peace. However, it became clear my pass did not protect me from the police. If it does not work, I do not know how to prove that I am a journalist working, not an activist.
When I went out, people stopped me to discuss my arrest. Although each interaction felt kind and sweet, I was overwhelmed. I love being a journalist, but I did not choose this profession for fame. Instead, my apprehension blurred the line between my private and professional life. As a result, everyone who sees me now recognizes me as the journalist who was arrested. I cannot discuss many details for legal reasons, which complicates things.
I refuse to let this incident deter me or others from pursuing journalism. We must be present where events unfold. We have the right to be there, and the public deserves to understand these situations, especially those with limited coverage. Thus, I will continue to fight for this right.
