Today, the Pride PEI Board of Directors released the following statement in regards to partisan politicians participating in the annual PEI Pride Parade - taking place this summer on Saturday, July 29.
In recent years, Pride PEI has been proud to have representation from all of the Island's major political parties in the Parade, but sadly, this symbolic form of allyship has not been followed up with tangible efforts to address the rise in hate speech, and acts of violence directed at our community.
Because of this, and recent comments from those in leadership positions, we feel there is no other choice but to suspend the entry of all provincial political parties until commitments are made, and followed up on with real meaningful action once the legislature reconvenes following the election.
To all political leaders: It’s time to take a stand and make critically needed investments in 2SLGBTQIA+ safety, inclusion, and empowerment initiatives.
