The head of Pride Toronto expressed his disappointment after a group of protesters disrupted the annual Pride parade on Sunday.
Executive Director of Pride Toronto, Sherwin Modeste, stated that the organization had been working closely with the Toronto Police Service to ensure the safety and security of all participants in the parade. However, a group of protesters blocked the parade route, causing a delay and ultimately forcing the parade to come to a halt.
Modeste emphasized that the Pride parade is a celebration of love, diversity, and inclusivity, and that the actions of the protesters went against the very values that the parade stands for. He also expressed concern for the safety of the parade participants, as well as the impact on the thousands of spectators who had come to show their support.
The disruption of the parade was met with mixed reactions from the LGBTQ+ community. While some supported the protesters’ message, others felt that the parade was not the appropriate platform for their cause.
Modeste acknowledged the importance of free speech and the right to protest, but stressed that it should not come at the expense of the safety and well-being of others. He also stated that the Pride parade is a space for all members of the LGBTQ+ community to come together and celebrate their identities, and that any form of discrimination or exclusion goes against the very essence of the parade.
In response to the disruption, Toronto Police Chief James Ramer issued a statement apologizing for the delay and stating that the police were working to ensure the safety of all involved. He also stated that the police would be reviewing their response to the incident.
Despite the disruption, the Pride parade continued after the protesters were removed from the route. Modeste expressed his gratitude to the parade participants and spectators for their resilience and understanding.
The Pride parade has been a staple event in Toronto for over 40 years, and Modeste assured that the organization will continue to work towards creating a safe and inclusive space for all members of the LGBTQ+ community.
