Opposing groups of demonstrators gathered on Ottawa’s Wellington Street, exchanging shouts and chants as a large protest against the inclusion of LGBTQ2S+ issues in school curricula took place on Parliament Hill.
The “One Million March for Children” occurred simultaneously with a counter-protest by pro-LGBTQ2S+ activists. Ottawa police maintained a separation between the two groups along Wellington Street, and although both sides engaged in vocal protests, the demonstrations remained peaceful.
Canada, Happening Now: 1 Million March for Children.
People are finally standing up to woke culture, leave our kids alone! pic.twitter.com/PryMA3iCIm
— AlphaFo𝕏 (@Alphafox78) September 20, 2023
The primary objective of the protesters was to demand the removal of teachings about gay, lesbian, and transgender individuals from school curricula, asserting that such content infringes upon their parental rights to guide their children’s moral and social upbringing. Signs at the protest displayed slogans like “leave the kids alone” and “pride comes before destruction.” Some participants also called for the resignation of Prime Minister Justin Trudeau.
In contrast, counter-protesters displayed pride progress flags and held signs advocating for the protection of transgender children.
Similar demonstrations are occurring in various locations across Canada.
Ottawa Mayor Mark Sutcliffe, in a social media post, expressed his respect for the right to protest but voiced disagreement with this particular protest. He emphasized that targeting 2SLGBTQIA+ children for simply being themselves has no place in the city and may harm youth seeking acceptance and support. Mayor Sutcliffe affirmed his solidarity with Ottawa’s 2SLGBTQIA+ community, assuring them of their value and welcome in the city.
