Students and activists protested at the University of Winnipeg on Saturday, objecting to the decision to grant conservative M.P. and Public Safety Minister Vic Toews an honorary degree at the Autumn Convocation ceremony.
The convocation ceremony began at 2 p.m. and the protest began on the main street of the U of W campus at about 12:45 p.m.
U of W alumnus Robert McGreggor led the protesters out to the street.
He said they are protesting the honorary degree for many reasons, including Toews' views on abortion, same-sex marriage, the war in afghanistan and criminal sentances for youth as well as his role in the recent G8 and G20 summits.
During convocation, the protesters were allowed into the hall. They didn't bring their signs and did not disrupt Toews' speech.
Matthew Molnar, a protester and a member of the school's board of regents, said the protesters were respectful of the students at the graduation.
"This event is for the students," he said.
In a press release sent out by the university, Toews said he is honoured by the award.
"Throughout my life, the education I received at The University of Winnipeg has served me well in my private life and through my many years of public service. I couldn't be more proud to be an alumni of this great institution," Toews said.
President and vice-chancellor of the university Lloyd Axworthy said Toews has demonstrated his strong commitment to the U of W.
"He has shown dedication and commitment to our university's unique role in revitalizing Winnipeg's downtown. He has also actively demonstrated support of our goal of providing access to education to traditionally under-represented students such as Aboriginal, new Canadian and inner-city youth," Axworthy said in the same press release.
