FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Press Release: Horizon Ottawa Calls on OCDSB to Reverse Decision to Pull Out of Capital Pride
Press Release: Horizon Ottawa Calls on OCDSB to Reverse Decision to Pull Out of Capital Pride
OTTAWA - Horizon Ottawa is calling on the Ottawa Carleton District School Board (OCDSB) to reverse their decision to pull out of this year’s Annual Capital Pride Parade that takes place in August. The decision comes at a time when the 2SLGBTQIA+ community continues to face increasing hate and discrimination and is believed to be a result of Ford’s takeover of the Board.
According to the media, the OCDSB says they are pulling out of the Parade because “these events do not fall within the school year for our students and staff.” Despite that fact, the OCDSB has consistently been involved in the Pride Parade since 2011, with a brief hiatus in 2024.
“This decision is unacceptable and sends the message to students and parents of students in the 2SLGBTQIA+ community that they are not valued,” said Tom Ledgley, Coordinator for Horizon Ottawa. “The explanation given by the Board holds no water and is a direct affront on the queer community from the Ford government.”
The Ontario government's financial takeover of the school board in 2025 stripped local trustees of their decision-making powers and placed operations under a provincially appointed supervisor. The choice to withdraw from Pride was mandated from the top, bypassing the elected officials who traditionally championed the event.
“This decision is another example of how the Ford government is a threat to local democracy in Ottawa and across the province,” said Ledgley. “The OCDSB needs to stand up to bullies in Queen’s Park and reverse their decision to show 2SLGBTQIA+ that they matter and that the Board has their back.”
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FOR MEDIA INQUIRIES:
Tom Ledgley
613-663-7018
