Mississauga Mayor Bonnie Crombie expresses her deep disappointment upon learning about an anti-Pride demonstration scheduled for this weekend at Celebration Square, near Mississauga City Hall.
"As the mayor, I strongly believe in the principles of inclusion, acceptance, and equality, and I vehemently denounce this demonstration," wrote Mayor Bonnie Crombie in a statement.
"I want to make it clear that I firmly oppose any action or event that seeks to promote discrimination or undermine the rights and dignity of our 2SLGBTQI+ community."
Crombie mentioned that she has reached out to the Peel Regional Police and the city's security teams to express concerns about the Saturday demonstration. However, she points out that since Celebration Square is a public space, "we cannot stop the event unless the group is in violation of the law."
"The police, in collaboration with the city's security, will be present at the Square during the rally to ensure the peace and safety of all attendees," she added. "Any violation or instances of hate speech will be reported and promptly investigated by the appropriate authorities."
The city has strict rules regarding the use of Celebration Square and states on its website that it does not issue permits for demonstrations, rallies, and vigils.
According to the regulations, the use of the stage, generators, and electrical outlets is prohibited, and groups cannot distribute food or beverages. Violators are subject to fines.
Mayor Crombie also urged potential counter-protesters to avoid "confrontations that may escalate tensions."
"The best way to confront discrimination and intolerance is by not engaging and giving it the attention it does not deserve," the mayor concluded in her statement.
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