Ottawa’s mayor says he’s skipping this year’s Capital Pride following a falling out between the organization and a prominent Jewish group over statements in the run-up to this year’s festivities.
Last week, Capital Pride issued a statement making four pro-Palestinian “commitments,” saying it couldn’t withhold its solidarity without betraying “the promise of liberation that guides our work.”
It pledged to integrate a boycott list in its sponsorship reviews, recognize the “ongoing genocide” in opening remarks, host a “queer Arab showcase,” and call for a ceasefire and increased humanitarian aid.
Ottawa is a kind and welcoming city where everyone should feel included. I’m disappointed that despite conversations with the Jewish community, the board of Capital Pride has chosen to stand behind its original statement that caused significant hurt and distress for many members…
—@_MarkSutcliffe
The statement was immediately met with backlash when the Jewish Federation of Ottawa announced earlier this week that it was withdrawing from this year’s Pride parade.
It cited Capital Pride’s “refusal to adjust its stance,” which “marginalizes Jewish 2SLGBTQ+ individuals and the broader Jewish community.”
Other groups applauded Capital Pride’s statement and urged the group to take an even stronger stand.
Mayor says he’ll attend other events
Ottawa Mayor Mark Sutcliffe previously said he hoped the two groups could meet and reconcile, but on Thursday evening he announced he won’t be participating in events organized by Capital Pride.
Sutcliffe said while conversations did take place, he was disappointed when Capital Pride decided to stand by its original statement.
The mayor said he would attend other pride events as long as they’re not organized by Capital Pride.
“This decision by the board, days before the start of Pride, has unfortunately created an atmosphere where many now do not feel welcome to participate,” he wrote on X, formerly known as Twitter.
“Pride has always been and should continue to be a celebration of diversity and inclusion where no one feels excluded for who they are. I encourage the board of Capital Pride to take steps to ensure no one feels excluded this year.”
The organization’s Pride Week will officially kick off with a flag raising in front of city hall on Monday, according to its website.