Followers of Daryush Valizadeh, a U.S. blogger calling for the legalization of rape, might not be meeting in Vancouver this weekend after all.
Valizadeh, who goes by the nickname Roosh V, posted a message on his website Wednesday calling off a series of gatherings his followers were planning in cities across the world Saturday, citing vague safety concerns.
“I can no longer guarantee the safety or privacy of the men who want to attend,” he wrote. “I apologize to all the supporters who are let down by my decision.”
It’s unclear how many of Valizadeh’s fans were ever planning to meet in Vancouver. Activists who intended to protest the event said they expected a low attendance.
“Most of these guys are cowards… they’re keyboard warriors,” said protest organizer Jennifer Kim.
Valizadeh’s notorious views, which include a belief that rape should be legal on private property, frequently prompt pushback when he schedules appearances or meetings.
When this weekend’s events were announced, mayors in Ottawa and Vancouver made clear his followers were not welcome in their cities.
The values they have put out there are disgusting and frankly hate-based, so I have real concerns about that happening,” Vancouver Mayor Gregor Robertson said Tuesday.
