US ‘freedom convoy’ inspired by Canada bids to organize for Washington trip

The effort to launch an American “freedom convoy”, inspired by the Canadian truckers who have shut down parts of Ottawa for several weeks initially to protest vaccine mandates, is taking shape in a somewhat haphazard fashion.

At least three national organizations, and a constellation of regional ones, say they will depart for Washington in early March.

One proposed convoy aims to leave from Fresno in California on 2 March, taking the I-10 interstate straight to the capital, where it would arrive on 6 March.

“What brings us here tonight is unity, solidarity and a mindset of America,” the group’s lead organizer, Kip Coltrin, said on a conference call last week. “Obviously we have a grievance to address with our politicians, our people in Washington.”