Advertisement

Anti-SOGI, counter-protesters asked to leave legislature grounds due to rising tensions

Click to play video: 'Anti-SOGI rallies and counter protests break out across B.C.'
Anti-SOGI rallies and counter protests break out across B.C.
WATCHL: Anti-SOGI rallies were held Wednesday in cities across the province and across the country. People opposed to sexual orientation and gender identity programs being taught in public schools gathered to have their voices heard. But they were met by dozens of counter protesters who support SOGI. Keith Baldrey has more from Victoria. – Sep 20, 2023

Victoria police are asking people to avoid the legislature Wednesday as thousands showed up for a protest.

The grounds of the legislature were the site of one of the anti-SOGI rallies and counter-protests being held across B.C. and Canada.

Police said the area has now become unsafe and they are asking everyone to leave following “escalating tensions.”

About 2,500 people were in attendance and police said two people have been arrested.

Get the day's top news, political, economic, and current affairs headlines, delivered to your inbox once a day.

Get daily National news

Get the day's top news, political, economic, and current affairs headlines, delivered to your inbox once a day.
By providing your email address, you have read and agree to Global News' Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy.

Organizers of the planned demonstration have also left the area, police said.

Police officers will remain on the scene until the crowd has dispersed and the planned temporary road closures will not happen.

Click to play video: 'Dueling protests over SOGI curriculum expected for Wednesday'
Dueling protests over SOGI curriculum expected for Wednesday

SOGI 123 stands for sexual orientation and gender identity. It is a resource package designed to help teachers and school administrators reduce discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity (SOGI) in their curriculum.

Advertisement

Sponsored content

AdChoices