On September 29, 2025, during a meeting of the Ottawa Police Services Board, Councillor David Hill delivered a series of inflammatory remarks attacking Palestine solidarity protests. He falsely characterized peaceful demonstrators as dangerous, accused the city of excusing “Jew hatred” by dropping frivolous protest-related charges, and used this rhetoric to advocate for expanding the police budget.

These comments were not only misleading. They were dangerous.

Councillor Hill’s remarks are part of a broader effort to criminalize dissent and vilify those who stand for Palestinian human rights. His statements fuel anti-Palestinian racism, legitimize over-policing, and endanger people exercising their democratic right to protest. When elected officials use their platform to spread fear and misinformation, they normalize state repression and embolden those who target Palestinian, Muslim, and racialized communities with hate. Holding Hill accountable is essential to protecting both the right to protest and the safety of our communities. Ottawa’s City Council must make it clear that fearmongering and racism have no place in public office.