Authorities in West Kelowna, British Columbia, are assessing the safety and security arrangements for a private concert booking by American Christian musician Sean Feucht. The show is set to take place at Memorial Park Amphitheatre on August 23.
In a statement released Tuesday, a city spokesperson confirmed that staff are working closely with the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) to ensure public safety. The review follows growing concerns over Feucht’s political views and previous controversial statements.
Feucht, who ran as a Republican candidate in the 2020 U.S. congressional elections, is known for his outspoken support of former U.S. President Donald Trump. He has drawn criticism for his comments on LGBTQ+ rights and his opposition to abortion.
The city said the event was initially booked with limited information. Organizers of the concert are required to meet specific safety and security guidelines before the performance can go ahead.
This event is part of Feucht’s Canadian tour, which has already seen several cancellations. Six concerts in Central and Eastern Canada were called off last week. Despite this, Feucht is also set to perform in Abbotsford’s Mill Lake Park on August 24. That city is also reviewing the special event permit for the concert.
Officials in West Kelowna stressed that the city remains neutral and does not support or oppose any particular viewpoint shared during public events.
British Columbia Premier David Eby commented on the issue at a separate news conference. He stated that he does not support Feucht’s political and social messages.
The Kelowna Pride Society has publicly opposed the event. The group expressed serious concern and urged the city to reconsider allowing the concert. They cited Feucht’s strong stance against LGBTQ+ rights, abortion access, and gender-related topics.
Candace Banks, the co-vice president of the group, said Feucht’s views do not reflect the values of the Okanagan region. She noted that many are shocked the issue is still being debated in 2025.
While the concert has raised alarm among equality advocates, it has also sparked debate on free speech. The Canadian Constitution Foundation stated that canceling Feucht’s shows could violate his rights under the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms. James Turk, director at the Centre for Free Expression at Toronto Metropolitan University, warned that removing public permits for concerts due to political views sets a troubling precedent.
Feucht has made several polarizing remarks online. In an August 2023 social media post, he described the LGBTQ+ community in extreme terms. He also claimed that Pride Month promotes harmful agendas.
This week, Feucht shared on Facebook that a show planned for next month in Winnipeg had its outdoor permit cancelled. He criticized city officials and predicted a backlash.
No one from Feucht’s tour team responded to requests for comment on the recent developments.
The City of West Kelowna has not yet announced whether the concert will proceed as planned. The final decision is expected after a full review of safety plans in cooperation with local law enforcement.
