Hundreds gathered to rally against queer hate and to celebrate transgender people in downtown Âé¶čAV on Oct. 15.
On the crisp and sunny fall morning, multiple organizations and hundreds of queer allies came together with colourful signs and fabulous outfits to support each other at the anti-hate rally and march.
The event was organized in response to the that was held in Âé¶čAV on Sept. 20, with a focus on abolishing Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity (SOGI) educational resources in schools.
READ MORE: Queer advocates speak out against anti-gender education march in Âé¶čAV
Leaders in Âé¶čAVâs queer community from Advocacy Canada and the Âé¶čAV Pride Society said that they made the decision not to hold an official counter-protest on the day of the 1 Million March, for fear of violence.
Some people who did attend the Sept. 20, event as counter-protesters and allies to the 2SLGBTQIA+ community, said that the rally was filled with anti-queer and hate-filled messages.
Counter-protesters were witnessed being yelled at and called âgroomersâ and âchild abusers.â
Signs reading âIf you truly understood the LGBTQ agenda you would march with us to protect Godâs children,â were carried during the 1 Million March for Children through Âé¶čAVâs streets.
READ MORE: Police investigate apparent Nazi salute at Âé¶čAV anti-SOGI march
Wilbur Turner, the founder of Advocacy Canada said that throughout his life as a queer grandparent, he has noticed an uptick in organized hate against queer, and specifically transgender people, over the last five years. Despite the increased hate, Turner has not backed down and continues to spread messages of love and acceptance.
He said that he wants all people to know that they belong and are loved, just the way that they are.
Claire House, from the Âé¶čAV Pride Society said that all people in Âé¶čAV deserve to feel loved and welcomed. House said that it was important to hold an anti-hate rally to show all people that âwe belong here, just the way we are.â
People at the anti-hate event shared messages of support, love, and togetherness.
For more information on resources and supports available in Âé¶čAV visit , , , and .
READ MORE: Âé¶čAV Community Resources: Advocating for everyone to belong
