A white nationalist from Austria, known for promoting extremist views, expressed his hope that Canada would permit his entry for an upcoming conference in Hamilton. Martin Sellner, who was permanently banned from the U.K. in 2019 due to security concerns, is slated to be a keynote speaker at a Dominion Society conference advocating for “remigration,” the mass expulsion of immigrants.
Sellner faced travel permit cancellations in the U.S. as well, following revelations that the Christchurch mosque shooter in New Zealand had donated funds to him. This led to German authorities imposing a three-year entry ban on Sellner in 2024 after nationalist gatherings sparked significant protests.
Canadian officials, citing privacy laws, have not disclosed whether Sellner will be allowed into the country. Immigration Minister Lena Diab’s office emphasized that individuals must meet the admissibility criteria outlined in the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act, which includes factors like involvement in violence, terrorism, or organized crime groups.
Sellner’s anticipated presence in Hamilton has raised concerns among experts. Ameil Joseph, an anti-racism scholar in Hamilton, suggested that if other nations have restricted Sellner’s access, Canada should consider similar action. Hamilton Mayor Andrea Horwath has contacted venue owners to inform them about the Dominion Society’s beliefs, emphasizing the city’s stance against hate, racism, and discrimination.
The Dominion Society, a nationalist group in Canada, promotes the controversial “great replacement” theory, asserting that mass immigration is causing upheaval and advocating for the mass deportation of various groups. Despite pushback, the group’s chair, Daniel Tyrie, defended Sellner’s potential visit to Canada as a matter of free speech and accused critics of fostering political polarization.
Experts warn that white supremacist groups exploit economic concerns to advance their agenda, using rhetoric that masks their discriminatory intentions. The Dominion Society and individuals like Sellner attempt to normalize extremist views within mainstream discourse, much like past figures such as David Duke, who veiled racist ideologies behind political rhetoric.
The concept of “remigration,” aimed at reducing non-white populations, has gained traction in certain circles, with officials in some countries adopting policies under this banner. Critics argue that such ideologies prey on legitimate economic anxieties to promote discriminatory practices and divide communities.
