The City of West Kelowna is rethinking its approval for a U.S. musician and preacher known for his strong support of former U.S. President Donald Trump. The performer, Sean Feucht, is set to lead a concert and religious gathering on August 23 at Memorial Park near the Johnson-Bentley Aquatic Centre.
City officials say the event is under review due to recent public safety issues tied to Feucht’s other Canadian stops. Several cities in Eastern Canada have already pulled their support for similar events after facing public pushback and planned protests.
“In light of safety concerns identified at shows scheduled in Eastern Canada, staff are reviewing the safety considerations of this event,” said Ashley Stewart, a spokesperson for the City of West Kelowna, in an email statement.
Stewart emphasized that the city must treat all event bookings fairly. “We cannot cancel a booking simply because an artist’s views differ from those of the city or some community members,” she noted.
Feucht is known for his music, Christian missionary work, and outspoken political opinions. He has voiced strong views against abortion, gender rights, and LGBTQ+ inclusion. His beliefs have received support from the Trump administration, which has boosted his visibility.
Despite the controversy, Feucht’s official website still lists five upcoming shows in Western Canada. These include two in British Columbia—one in West Kelowna and another in Abbotsford on August 24.
Cities in the eastern provinces, however, are pulling back. Parks Canada canceled Feucht’s permit for a performance at York Redoubt National Historic Site in Halifax. The agency said the decision came after police raised safety concerns.
Charlottetown, the capital of Prince Edward Island, also revoked Feucht’s event permit. Officials there mentioned “evolving public safety and security concerns” as the main reason. Meanwhile, Quebec City called Feucht a “controversial artist” when it pulled permission for a concert at ExpoCité.
In response to the cancellations, Feucht posted a video on Facebook. In it, he claimed he was being targeted for his faith. “This is the classic playbook of the media and those who hate Christians,” he said. He also pointed out that the Halifax location had just hosted a Pride event the week before, suggesting unequal treatment.
Social media users have been split on the issue. Some supported the event cancellations, arguing that Feucht’s political stance could threaten Canadian values. “It’s not about free speech,” one user wrote. “It’s about supporting someone who challenges Canadian sovereignty.”
Others saw the cancellations as unfair. One commenter wrote, “This is just a Christian event. Not political.” Another said, “I am embarrassed and ashamed to hear this happening.”
As of now, the West Kelowna event remains on Feucht’s tour schedule. City staff continue to review whether it can move forward safely. No final decision has been made yet.
The review comes as Canadian cities balance free expression with public safety. Whether Feucht’s event in West Kelowna goes ahead will likely depend on further security assessments in the days ahead.
