A white nationalist from Austria, known for spreading extremist beliefs, expressed hope that Canada would permit his entry for an upcoming conference in Hamilton. Martin Sellner is slated to be a keynote speaker at an event organized by the Dominion Society on August 29, advocating for “remigration,” the mass expulsion of immigrants.

Sellner faced a permanent ban from the U.K. in 2019 due to security concerns, with the government citing him as a significant threat to the country’s efforts against extremism. His U.S. travel permit was also revoked in the same year after it was revealed that the Christchurch mosque shooter donated money to him. The shooter was convicted for the terrorist attack that led to the death of 51 individuals.

In 2024, Sellner was issued a three-year entry ban by German authorities following a nationalist gathering that sparked widespread protests. Canadian officials, citing privacy laws, declined to disclose whether Sellner would be allowed entry, stating that individuals must meet admissibility criteria as per the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act.

Sellner responded to promotional material by the Dominion Society, expressing his desire to attend the conference in Hamilton. Ameil Joseph, an anti-racism scholar based in Hamilton, suggested that Canada should follow the lead of other nations in restricting Sellner’s access.

Hamilton Mayor Andrea Horwath informed venue owners about the Dominion Society’s agenda to aid them in making informed decisions. The Dominion Society, which supports the “great replacement” conspiracy theory, advocates for mass deportation of various groups, including temporary foreign workers and non-Canadian citizens.

Daniel Tyrie, the Dominion Society’s chair, defended Sellner’s potential visit, labeling any attempt to prevent his entry as political persecution. He criticized the mayor’s stance, stating that individuals have the right to assemble peacefully and share their perspectives.

Experts highlighted the exploitation of economic concerns by white supremacist groups to advance their ideologies. They emphasized the dangerous implications of such movements and their use of rhetoric to mask discriminatory agendas.

In conclusion, Sellner’s potential entry into Canada for the conference has stirred controversy, with calls for vigilance against extremist influences within the community.