Police stand guard in front of the Toronto Eaton Centre shopping mall where a shooting occurred in Toronto on June 2, 2012.Mark Blinch/Reuters
Malls are at a curious crossroads of North American culture - private institutions full of private businesses that occupy a space in public society. They are places of culture and socializing as much as commerce.
So what are the limits of keeping shopping centres safe, while providing easy access to the thousands of people who come through? Globe reporter Paul Waldie took a look at that balance in a story today, spun off the recent Eaton Centre shooting.
We wanted to give everyone a chance to talk about it. Unfortunately, because this topic is related to an ongoing court case, we have to close comments on the stories published on our site (for the fairness of the judicial process).
So, for two hours today (noon to 2 p.m. ET) we are allowing you to share your stories on mall safety and keeping peace in public spaces. All comments will be moderated. Comments relating directly to the court case will not be published. (Mobile users click here)
Chris Hannay