Legal action follows cancellation of Riverfront Park performance
The City of Moncton has been named in a civil claim after it revoked permits last July for a musical event featuring American Christian musician Sean Feucht.
Burn 24/7 Canada, the religious non-profit founded by Feucht, filed a notice of action in Moncton court on Aug. 4, alleging the city’s decision to stop the planned “musical worship show” infringed the organisation’s constitutional rights to freedom of expression under section 2(b) of the Charter of Rights and Freedoms. The claim is seeking $50,000 in damages.
- Plaintiff: Burn 24/7 Canada (organisation founded by Sean Feucht)
- Defendant: City of Moncton
- Allegation: Infringement of freedom of expression (Charter s.2(b))
- Relief sought: $50,000 in damages
The city revoked the permits last summer, citing concerns linked to its facility code of conduct and security, according to media reports. Municipal officials have not been quoted in detail in the filed materials that are publicly reported, and the city has yet to issue a full public response to the notice of action.
"These infringements are not trivial," the statement of claim reads. "They relate to fundamental civil liberties that underpin Canadian democracy and they caused serious harm."
Context and controversy
Sean Feucht has become a polarizing figure in recent years. The musician and missionary has held religious gatherings across Canada and the United States. Media coverage notes Feucht has drawn controversy for public statements opposing 2SLGBTQ+ rights, abortion rights and critical race theory. Those political and social positions are referenced in reporting about the cancelled Moncton event but are not allegations in the lawsuit itself.
Local officials cited safety and conduct concerns when cancelling the permit. The city’s decision reflects a municipal responsibility to balance rights of expression with public-safety measures, facility policies and expectations for events in public spaces.
What this means for Moncton
The case raises several local questions residents and event organisers are likely to watch closely:
- How the city applies its facility code of conduct and security requirements for events held in public parks.
- Whether the revocation of permits will be treated by courts as a justified exercise of municipal authority in the interest of public safety.
- Potential impacts on future bookings at Riverfront Park and other public venues in Moncton, particularly for events that spark public debate.
Legal challenges that involve Charter rights can set precedents or influence municipal policies, depending on outcomes. If the court finds the city acted improperly, the ruling could prompt changes to how Moncton approves or cancels permits. Conversely, if the city’s actions are upheld, municipalities may feel affirmed in enforcing conduct and security standards.
Timeline
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| July (last year) | City of Moncton revoked permits for the planned Sean Feucht performance at Riverfront Park |
| Aug. 4 (this year) | Burn 24/7 Canada filed a notice of action in Moncton court |
At this stage the dispute is a notice of action; the litigation process can involve exchange of documents, motions and potentially a trial. The city and Burn 24/7 Canada will have opportunities through the courts to set out their evidence and legal arguments.
Moncton residents, park users and community groups with interests in freedom of expression, public safety and inclusive municipal spaces will likely follow developments closely. The case underscores the often-difficult balancing act municipal governments face when events in public venues generate political or social controversy.
