Hundreds of individuals rallied towards what an organizer calls “gender ideology” close to three west-end Ottawa colleges at present, as a whole lot extra joined a counter-protest in assist of transgender rights.
Police arrested 5 individuals in reference to the protests however wouldn’t share extra details about why.
The protest towards gender identification being taught in colleges was organized by activist Chris Elston, whereas group teams Horizon Ottawa and Community Solidarity Ottawa mobilized the counter-protest.
Police closed a stretch of Broadview Avenue in Westboro between Carling Avenue and Tillbury Avenues and divided the gang into a number of teams alongside the road.
A lady provides thumbs down as she takes half in a protest towards Pride in Ottawa, Friday, June 9, 2023. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Sean Kilpatrick.
Notre Dame High School is situated on that part of the road, and Broadview Avenue Public School and Nepean High School are situated one other block away.
The Ottawa-Carleton District School Board has urged the protesters to maneuver their demonstrations away from the faculties.
Counter protesters carry Pride and Trans Pride flags to confront a protest towards Pride in Ottawa, Friday, June 9, 2023. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Sean Kilpatrick.
“Adults should never make children and youth feel threatened or intimidated. Protests that are intended to provoke students, staff, families and/or community members to generate attention or social media traffic are completely unacceptable,” the board mentioned in a press launch forward of the deliberate protest.
Neighbourhood resident Tris Harrison mentioned he has two children who attend Broadview Avenue Public School, one in kindergarten and one other in Grade 2.
Harrison mentioned whereas he respects protesters’ democratic rights, the demonstrations are unfair and disruptive to the kids in close by colleges.
“I don’t want my (kids’) school used as a prop,” he mentioned.
“Is this fair to a seven-year-old?”
