GoFundMe pulls trucker convoy fundraiser, citing terms of service ‘violation’

GoFundMe has pulled an online fundraiser for the “Freedom Convoy” protests from its platform due to a violation of the company's terms of service.

“GoFundMe supports peaceful protests and we believe that was the intention of the 'Freedom Convoy' 2022 fundraiser when it was first created,” the company said in a statement released the evening of Friday, February 4. “We now have evidence from law enforcement that the previously peaceful demonstration has become an occupation, with police reports of violence and other unlawful activity.”

The company, which provides a platform for crowdfunding, said in the statement that multiple discussions with local law enforcement and city officials led to the discovery that the fundraiser violated Term 8 of its terms of service.

On Wednesday, February 2, GoFundMe first suspended the fundraiser after it saw more than $10 million in donations.

“Given how this situation has evolved, no further funds will be directly distributed to the 'Freedom Convoy' organizers,” the statement said. “We will work with organizers to send all remaining funds to credible and established charities verified by GoFundMe.”

Ottawa police issued a statement on Twitter thanking the company for pulling the funds.

We want to thank @gofundme for listening to our concerns as a City and a police service. The decision to withhold funding for these unlawful demonstrations is an important step and we call on all crowdfunding sites to follow.

— Ottawa Police (@OttawaPolice) February 5, 2022

Anyone who donated to the fundraiser can request a refund until Saturday, February 19 using an online refund form.