A set of rules for white people at a vigil for Michael Brown in Canada has sparked controversy with critics accusing organizers of promoting segregation.

'Non black allies' were told to 'refrain from taking up space in all ways possible' and 'never be at the centre of anything' at the event in Toronto on November 25.

The Facebook page also advised white demonstrators to 'refrain from speaking to the media' and 'stand behind black folks or between us and the police'.

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Controversial: These were the guidelines suggested to white supporters at an anti-racism protest in Canada

Tensions: The grand jury's refusal to indict white police officer Darren Wilson for the shooting of unarmed black teenager Michael Brown has sparked protests against racism across the US, Canada and Europe

'If you see a cop harassing a black person,' it added, 'come in and engage (chances are they are least likely to arrest you)'.

It has provoked tension in the wake of the grand jury verdict in Ferguson, which refused to indict officer Darren Wilson for the fatal shooting of unarmed black teenager Michael Brown.

Protests have been staged across the United States and Canada, and further afield, after Michael Brown's shooting highlighted severe racial divides between the majority white police force and citizens in Ferguson, a predominantly African American suburb of St Louis, Missouri.

Millions of people have taken to the streets across the globe to protest racism and segregation.

Shooting: Michael Brown, 18, (left) was shot by Darren Wilson (right) on August 9 in Ferguson, Missouri

Peaceful protest: Crowds gathered in candlelight on Tuesday in Toronto in a show of solidarity with Ferguson

However, the peaceful protests were marred by a war of words on Wednesday as the Facebook event created by Black Lives Matter: Toronto was flooded with accusations of racism.

One user wrote: 'Wow, is this an anti-racist rally or a pro-segregation one?'

Another said: 'Changed a lot for me. I will no longer be attending this event or supporting this cause.'

Others, however, supported the organizers.

Anger: Organizers of the Facebook page described their anger at the grand jury's decision

Accusations: The rules outlined prompted Facebook users to accuse organizers of promoting segregation

'So many white tears about the rules for allies... Why can’t you let black folk stand in the centre and let their voices be heard, just for once,' one commented.

And one said: 'I can’t believe how the media and so many of the commenters on this page are making this event about White people.