“We Can’t Do This Alone” ⁠— Wong-Tam Joins Pride Organizations and calls on on Doug Ford to combat rising hate

QUEEN’S PARK — NDP MPP Kristyn Wong-Tam (Toronto Centre) joined representatives from Pride organizations across Ontario call on the Ford government for support to combat the threats of growing anti-2SLGBTQI+ hate.

“For months, I have called on the Ford Conservatives to create a plan to keep our communities safe. I have tabled legislation, I have asked for a plan in Question Period, and I’ve spoken to ministers privately after Question Period, urging them to step up. We have used every tool available to call for action from this government. Unfortunately, Ford’s Conservatives are sidestepping their responsibility,” said Wong-Tam.

“If Doug Ford continues down this road, more Two-Spirit, Queer and Trans people will continue to be in harm’s way. We are here today to call on this government to take timely and necessary steps to address the growing hate, support local Prides, and invest in the festivities and organizations that bring so much value to communities across our province.”

QUOTES:

Jason Maclennan, Communications Director, North Bay Pride

“We implore local political leaders to engage in meaningful dialogue with North Bay Pride, listen to the reality that our community is facing, and reinstate the funding we need to continue this work and combat hate.”

Julie Nobert-DeMarchi, Fierté Timmins Pride and Fierté Canada Pride

“We urgently need the support of the provincial government to help us to aid us in tackling this issue, step up in both combating hate and in providing funding and resources to 2SLGBTQI+ Pride event organizers and community organizations. We implore the government to recognize its responsibility in fostering a more inclusive and safer environment for everyone.”

Kojo Modeste, Executive Director, Pride Toronto

“We're calling on all levels of government to take immediate action to ensure that people that spread hate are held accountable. We cannot do this alone; our community cannot do this alone. This is a fight that the Premier of Ontario should be leading.”

Reverend Jeffrey Dale, Minister for Justice and Faith Formation with Shining Waters and Canadian Shield Regional Councils

“I am here to call on the provincial government to assist queer people from across this province in funding ongoing community-based grassroots-led safety practices ⁠—beyond one-time, technical safety needs like locks on doors or security cameras. This ongoing funding would ensure that all pride organizations would have access to those funds, including those in rural communities that are often run by volunteers without permanent office space or salaries.”

Scotia Kauppi, Chair of the board, Thunder Pride Association

"The safety of our community is the Premier's responsibility. We are Ontario citizens, pay our taxes, work and love Ontario. But without a strategic plan for Anti-2SLGBTQIA+ hate defined and organized by the province, pride organizations like mine and our volunteers must do all the work."

Toby Whitfield, Executive Director, Capital Pride

“We need the provincial government to take action against the rise of hate, because this cannot be the new normal. At a time when many pride festivals are facing higher safety costs, we are disappointed to learn of the significant funding cuts to the provincial Experience Ontario program.”