WINNIPEG — The inaugural Pride Parade in Steinbach kicked off with well over one thousand people.
The march was set to begin after 11am near Jake Epp Library, but due to an influx of supporters packing the highway, the parade was slightly delayed.
RCMP provided security and conducted traffic on the front lines of the parade.
The number of supporters was higher than expected according to organizer Michelle McHale, causing short delays in the program and police also closed down extra side streets to accommodate the large crowd.
A host of events and speakers from Manitoba’s LGBTTQ community and other leaders spoke and shared their experiences of living in what has been called Manitoba’s Bible Belt.
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Organizers of Steinbach Pride have been met with opposition in the city, including its elected officials. Local leaders – including Minister Kelvin Goertzen, Steinbach Mayor Chris Goertzen (no relation) and MP Ted Falk are not attending the parade; citing personal commitments or religious beliefs.
In a written statement, Falk said “I’ve been clear on this issue many times, and have made my position public on my values of faith, family, and community.”
Organizers said the large turnout sends a message to elected officials or those who oppose equality for LGBTTQ people.
“People to come out in this many numbers, can’t be ignored. It can’t be ignored,” said Michelle McHale, organizer of Steinbach Pride.
Other institutions, including churches showed their support with signs, as well as marching in the streets.
Joan Jarvis of United Church of Canada said, “there are many, many Christian folk who are supportive of human rights legislation and for the gay community.”
READ MORE: Conservative MP says he will not attend Steinbach pride march due to values
Educators have also been locked in a battle with Hanover School Division, which currently has policies that prohibit teachers from discussing gender identity, sexual orientation and same-sex relationships in classrooms. Many of those teachers showed their support at Pride, decked out in purple shirts and holding rainbow flags high in the air.
“It sends a message to all communities across the province that Manitoba’s public schools are safe and inclusive places for students to be,” said James Bedforth, vice president of the Manitoba Teachers’ Society.
Organizers and supporters said they will march again in Steinbach next year.
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