On February 26, 2014, Councillor Lloyd Ferguson of the City of Hamilton Council is said to have pushed independent journalist Joey Coleman in the foyer of City Hall following a City Council meeting. The incident was the subject of an investigation by the City's Integrity Commissioner. The quality of the Integrity Commissioner's investigation and report has been widely criticized. Many people continue to question what actually happened, and whether the followup by the City was adequate, especially in consideration of the City's Zero Tolerance for Violence policy.

However, there is video of the incident, taken by the City's security system. That video has never been released to the public.

A request for the video has been made to the City under the Municipal Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act. The City agreed to release the video, but a third party has appealed that decision. Now, a year and half later, the uncertainty surrounding the incident continues to affect relationships and reputations at City Hall and in the community. The public release of the video is in the public interest, as it would clarify for both the City and citizens what exactly took place, and allow citizens to more accurately judge the actions and reactions of City Councillors, officials and staff.

We, the undersigned, petition City Council, and in particular Councillor Ferguson, to take all measures to persuade the individual who has appealed the release of the video to withdraw the appeal so that the citizens of Hamilton can view the video.