Carney Announces $1.5M for 2SLGBTQ+ Pride Parade Safety

Prime Minister Mark Carney raised the Pride flag on Parliament Hill Tuesday and announced $1.5 million in federal funding to help secure 2SLGBTQ+ parades and festivals across Canada. His remarks come amid a sharp rise in anti-LGBTQ hate crimes and growing international pushback against gender and sexual diversity rights.

Speaking to a crowd of MPs, senators, activists, and community members, Carney acknowledged the progress made in Canada but warned that rights are not guaranteed and require active protection.

“We can take pride in how far we’ve come, but we should also recognize there’s far more to do,” Carney said.

Hate Crimes Spike During Pride Month

According to Statistics Canada, hate crimes based on sexual orientation rose 69% in 2023, with June — Pride Month — recording four times more incidents than any other month.

In light of this, Carney said the new funding will help Fierté Canada Pride, a national network of Pride organizers, address the rising costs of insurance, security, and crisis planning. The money aims to support events in both large cities and smaller communities, where safety risks may be more pronounced.

Rechie Valdez, Minister for Women and Gender Equality, stressed that the funding sends a message:

“Everyone deserves to feel safe and supported in their community.”

A Global Shift and a National Stand

The funding announcement comes as countries like the U.S. roll back LGBTQ+ rights. President Donald Trump has issued executive orders banning gender-affirming support in schools and eliminating DEI programs in government.

Carney contrasted this with Canada’s approach:

“Canada will always stand up for the vulnerable and the equal rights we cherish.”

Pride Toronto Faces Funding Pressure

Carney’s remarks also follow reports that Pride Toronto has lost major U.S.-based sponsors, including Google and Home Depot, due to concerns over political fallout linked to anti-DEI policies in the U.S.

Compounding matters, an audit found Pride Toronto failed to deliver on certain government-funded projects. The group has also faced backlash over political statements on the Gaza war, drawing criticism from some members of the Jewish community.

Despite these challenges, Pride Month celebrations are continuing across Canada — now backed by federal support intended to safeguard the right to gather, march, and be visible.

Do you believe more federal support is needed to protect Pride events across Canada? Share your thoughts below.

More…

• https://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/carney-pride-backlash-1.7557360
• https://ca.news.yahoo.com/carney-laments-pride-backlash-rolls-184105499.html
• https://www.reddit.com/r/CanadaPolitics/comments/1l87nv7/carney_laments_pride_backlash_and_rolls_out_money