Capital Pride urges feds to support anti-hate efforts
Posted May 29, 2023 03:12:40 PM.
Last Updated May 31, 2023 05:26:32 PM.
As 2SLGBTQ+ events across North America experience a rise in incidents of hate, Capital Pride is asking the federal government for support to help people feel safer ahead of Pride month.
“There’s a really extreme rise of online rhetoric and threats, including against local activists and community leaders in Ottawa,” said Toby Whitfield, executive director of Capital Pride. “More broadly, we have a campaign, at the moment, that we’re working with around securing federal funding to improve safety and security for queer folks.”
Some hate-related incidents occurred during Capital Pride’s latest winter programming, Whitfield said. He added that anti-hate efforts include forward-facing inclusive policies, such as workplace resource groups and healthcare benefits for trans employees.
On June 16, Capital Pride will host a youth Pride prom event. And on June 17, a pride celebration kicks off with Rupaul’s Drag Race contestant Marcia Marcia Marcia.
However, most of the organization’s programming will be on during the week-long Capital Pride Festival, from August 19 to 27.
