Dueling protests over 2SLGBTQ+ rights outside Ottawa schools draw hundreds, five arrested

Hundreds of people rallied against what an organizer calls “gender ideology” near three west-end schools on Friday, as hundreds more joined a counter-protest in support of transgender rights.

The protest against gender identity being taught in schools was organized by activist Chris Elston, while community groups Horizon Ottawa and Community Solidarity Ottawa mobilized the counter-protest.

On Broadview and Wellesley Avenues, community members showed up with Pride flags and signs, while protestors wearing “Save Canada” hats marched up to the police barrier in protest of the community.

Ottawa Police Service (OPS) closed a stretch of Broadview Avenue in Westboro between Carling Avenue and Tillbury Avenues and divided the crowd into several groups along the street.

Police tweeted that five people were arrested.

“During any assembly, unlawful behaviour will be addressed promptly to ensure the safety and well-being of participants and members of the public,” Police said in their tweet.

“Police presence at demonstrations is intended to promote public safety and is not a display of support for any cause.”

Demonstration update: five people have been arrested.

During any assembly, unlawful behaviour will be addressed promptly to ensure the safety and well-being of participants and members of the public.

Police presence at demonstrations is intended to promote public safety and is…

— Ottawa Police (@OttawaPolice) June 9, 2023

Emily Quail, one of the organizers and parent of a Broadview Public School student, told CityNews Ottawa, it’s important to stand up against hate speech. “There’s absolutely no place for hate in our society, especially not towards vulnerable youth who are trying to figure themselves out and they need a space and safe understanding to do so,”

The Ottawa-Carleton District School Board (OCDSB) urged the protesters to move their demonstrations away from the schools.

Ottawa Centre MPP Joel Harden said on Twitter that he was punched while counter-protesting.

“I’ll take a punch for queer and trans youth any day,” he said.

Federal NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh said in a tweet that he’s proud of Harden and that LGBTQ people, including kids, are being targeted by what he called “angry and hateful extremists.”

“Governments must step up to protect the queer and trans community,”

I’m proud of you @JoelHardenONDP.

Queer and Trans people – and kids – are being targeted by angry and hateful extremists.

Governments must step up to protect the queer and trans community. https://t.co/j3ihWCumBA

— Jagmeet Singh (@theJagmeetSingh) June 9, 2023

With files from CityNews’ Zainab Al-Medhar and Liam Fox, Canadian Press