1973 Parliament Hill Riot: A Historical Reminder Amidst Today’s Railway Strike

OTTAWA – On August 30, 1973, a significant event unfolded at Parliament Hill as thousands of railway employees were striking. The minority government of Prime Minister Pierre Elliott Trudeau was under pressure to introduce back-to-work legislation to address the situation.

The striking non-operations railway workers had gathered in large numbers, creating a tense atmosphere. Reports from that time described the scene as chaotic and charged with anger, underscored by the fact that many protesters had been consuming alcohol amid the high temperatures.

Approximately 200 striking railway workers surged towards the Centre Block of Parliament, leading to what was termed an “explosive rampage.” The strikers, frustrated by the ongoing strike and the lack of pay, overwhelmed Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) members and broke into the building.

Once inside, the strikers caused significant disruption. They initially smashed window panes and made their way into the rotunda, which separates the House of Commons from the Senate, while onlookers, including frightened tourists, found themselves in hiding.

As the situation escalated, members of the media also faced hostility, with some being attacked while covering the event. The chaotic mix of heat, alcohol, and frustration set the stage for heightened tensions within Parliament.

Two hours later, police managed to contain the situation and expelled the rioters from the building. Fortunately, the injuries reported were minor, but the property damage was notable, including numerous broken windows within the historic structure.

Following the rampage, the government swiftly passed the back-to-work legislation, effectively ending the strike. Interestingly, Prime Minister Trudeau observed the uprising from a distance and remarked on the noisy affair.