The scheduled march by Steinbach Pride for Saturday was postponed due to serious threats that posed potential risks to attendees’ safety, according to organizers.
In a statement shared on social media by the Manitoba Pride Alliance, it was revealed that the parade in the southeastern Manitoba city had to be called off “due to credible safety threats linked to far-right extremism.”
Chris Plett, the president of Steinbach Pride’s board, mentioned that they had received information through informal channels about verbal threats against the Pride event, supposedly in response to the recent killing of right-wing political influencer Charlie Kirk in Utah.
The threats towards the local Pride event were somewhat vague but hinted at a connection to Kirk’s tragic incident. Plett expressed uncertainty about whether the threats were aimed at causing disruption or escalating to violence.
Plett noted that while there have been past instances of protests and threats at Pride events, the recent threats gave rise to concerns of a potential escalation beyond previous encounters.
Safety was emphasized as the top priority, with Plett stating, “We strive for a family-friendly and secure environment… Everyone attending these events deserves a safe experience, and we must ensure that.”
The threats have been reported to the RCMP by Steinbach Pride, Plett confirmed.
CBC News attempted to contact RCMP officials for comment but did not receive a response before publication.
The decision to postpone the event was made by Steinbach Pride’s board on Friday evening, with the announcement shared on social media shortly thereafter. On Saturday, organizers were present at K.R. Barkman Park to inform any unaware attendees about the postponement.
Importance of Events for the 2SLGBTQ+ Community: Speaker
Trevor Kirczenow, who was scheduled to speak and perform a violin rendition of Chappell Roan’s “Pink Pony Club” with their partner, expressed disappointment over the postponement but trusted the organizers’ judgment.
Kirczenow emphasized the need for safe spaces and events for the 2SLGBTQ+ community in Steinbach, highlighting the significance of such gatherings for mental health support, particularly given the higher prevalence of mental health challenges among 2SLGBTQ+ individuals.
Acknowledging the importance of community events for support and solidarity, Kirczenow mentioned the necessity for enhanced safety measures at future Pride events following the recent security threats.
“We must persevere and continue to come together as a community,” Kirczenow emphasized.
