World News – CA – Canucks cut ties with anthem singer Mark Donnelly over plans to sing in the anti-mask rally

The Vancouver Canucks have split from the team’s anthem singer Mark Donnelly after confirming he will sing at’ O Canada ‘tomorrow at a rally in downtown Vancouver to crack down on COVID Protest -19 restrictions.

B. . C.. . The 2020 Christmas Freedom Rally will take place in front of the Vancouver Art Gallery on Saturday afternoon. correct numbers.

Shortly after Donnelly confirmed his plans, team owner Franceso Aquilini tweeted: « Hey @VancouverSun change the heading to » Former Canucks Hymn Singer « . ‘# Wear a mask. ”

Earlier this month, a New Westminster man was arrested and charged with violating the quarantine law after bragging at a protest rally that he refused to self-isolate after a conference on Earth in South Carolina.

This special rally that includes a 1:30 p.m. march. m. and a singalong on stage at the end of the event is seasonally inspired. An event poster shared by promoter Ryan Kulbaba on Facebook declares: « We reject government regulations and will gather for the holidays! »

British Columbians remain under orders to stay home and have a mask mandate. Residents have been advised to avoid social gatherings of all types and sizes as health officials work to quell the second wave of COVID-19.

Kulbaba has been involved in several protests against COVID-19 restrictions. At an anti-mask demonstration in November, Kulbaba urged attendees to shop without a mask and to film their interactions with business leaders.

The Surrey resident was also the main organizer behind the B. . C.. . Freedom Mega Rally, a two-day event outside the art gallery in October.

Kulbaba’s latest event caused a stir. Donnelly, probably the most famous anthem artist in town, will sing “O Canada” at noon and perform again shortly before 4pm. m. according to the route of the rally.

« I sing ‘O Canada’ as a sign of unity and strength for all Canadians, » he said. “The real north is strong and free. ”

The Vancouver Canucks organization distanced itself from the hymn singer in a statement released on Friday afternoon.

« Mark Donnelly is acting independently and we hope the public understands that he is not representing the Vancouver Canucks, » said COO Trent Carroll. “We encourage everyone to wear a mask and follow provincial health instructions. ”

You never know where Donnelly will show up with a rendition of his signature song. In April, the singer performed as part of a 7 p. m. Greetings to health care workers from the courtyard of Amica White Rock, a senior citizen residence near the Peace Arch Hospital.

Donnelly, a practicing Catholic, has also made more controversial appearances in the past. In 2012 he sang « O Canada » at an anti-abortion rally on the steps of the Vancouver Art Gallery.

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Vancouver Canucks, Mark Donnelly, British Columbia, Francesco Aquilini