Vancouver restaurant that defied public health orders to lead "rally and street party"

The owner of a Vancouver restaurant that broke the suspension on indoor dining says that she’s hosting a “rally and dance party” to protest the current public health orders.

Rebecca Matthews is the owner of Corduroy Lounge in Kitsilano. Earlier this month, the restaurant served customers indoors, despite British Columbia’s current restrictions on indoor dining.

Later, a video was shared on social media showing the restaurant crowded with patrons. Matthews could be seen speaking to Vancouver Coastal Health (VCH) inspectors as people inside the restaurant chanted “get out.”

The City of Vancouver would later announce that it had suspended Corduroy’s business licence until April 20, 2021. Its liquor licence was also suspended shortly after.

• See also: 
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  • Restaurants that broke indoor dining ban “selfish, arrogant, and irresponsible”: BCRFA
  • “Pushy, rude” out-of-town patrons prompt BC restaurant owner to shutter during long

Matthews now says that she plans to host a protest on Friday evening called “The Great Reset.”

“I know not everyone shares our views, but we are in complete disagreement with the current health orders,” she says. “We are peacefully protesting this Friday to raise awareness to the incredible harm Dr. Bonnie’s recent decision has done to thousands of people.”

The rally is planned to take place in front of Cornwall Avenue in Kitsilano, in front of Corduroy Restaurant. Matthews says in an Instagram post that there will be “music, dancing, and speeches,” adding that they’re “taking over the street.”

Daily Hive has reached out to the Vancouver Police Department (VPD) and the City of Vancouver for comment.