During Wilfrid Laurier University’s homecoming events in September, approximately 7,500 individuals attended without any significant unauthorized gatherings. In contrast, Guelph experienced a different scenario, with thousands congregating, leading to property damage, overloaded hospital ER, and illegal activities.
Waterloo region police attributed the orderly conduct during the homecoming to several factors. Waterloo Regional Police Service (WRPS) Chief Mark Crowell emphasized that the key difference lies in the sanctioned nature of the event, typically featuring on-campus celebrations for alumni. Despite the successful management of homecoming in Waterloo region in recent years, Crowell stressed the importance of ongoing preparedness.
Maintaining strong connections with participants at sanctioned events and throughout the uptown corridor, police ensured a safe environment during Laurier’s homecoming weekend. In contrast, Guelph faced challenges with double the student attendance at an unsanctioned event near the University of Guelph, causing Mayor Cam Guthrie to label it as the most severe incident yet.
Guelph Police Service reported a turnout of 13,000 to 15,000 students at the unsanctioned gathering, resulting in a surge of emergency calls and a substantial increase in call volume compared to the previous year. The impact extended to local businesses and Guelph General Hospital, where around 60 individuals received treatment related to homecoming festivities.
In response to the unsanctioned gathering in Guelph, a collaborative homecoming working group was formed by the City of Guelph, Guelph Police Service, University of Guelph, and Guelph General Hospital. The group aims to mitigate risks and minimize the consequences of large unauthorized gatherings.
While Waterloo has not been immune to unsanctioned gatherings, such as the annual St. Patrick’s Day event, police and the city are familiar with managing large crowds on such occasions. Deputy Police Chief Jen Davis highlighted the difference between sanctioned and unsanctioned events, emphasizing the significance of adherence to regulations for ensuring public safety.
Planning and coordination with various stakeholders play a crucial role in managing both homecoming and St. Patrick’s Day events in Waterloo. The goal is to prevent unsafe and costly occurrences, similar to those witnessed in Guelph, by applying lessons learned from past events and prioritizing community safety.
