Statement from Official Opposition Leader Andrea Horwath and Hamilton’s NDP MPPs

HAMILTON — Andrea Horwath and Hamilton’s NDP MPPs released the following statement in response to rising tensions in the wake of homophobic and hate-fueled attacks against those attending the Hamilton Pride celebrations:

“We are watching with deepening concern, as are many Hamiltonians, the escalating hate-fueled gatherings and altercations that have plagued our community for the last number of months, the most recent being the heinous, homophobic attack against the LGBTQIA2S+ community at Gage Park during Pride celebrations.

As MPPs, we have joined with the LGBTQIA2S+ community to stand against hate, homophobia and transphobia. In divisive times like these, in particular, we all need our local political, community, business and faith leadership to rally together with one voice — not only to denounce this behaviour, but to ensure all tools available are being utilized to protect the rights and safety of Hamiltonians.

We urge Hamilton City Council and the Hamilton Police Service to work closely with the LGBTQIA2S+ community and other concerned Hamiltonians to develop a response, and a path forward that unifies our city and clearly shows who we are: a community of people that respects, protects and stands up for each other.”