Canadian Prime Minister to become the first ever PM to march in a pride parade

Toronto’s Pride organisers say, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau will become the first ever prime minister to participate in the month long Pride festivities. Prime Minister Trudeau is expected to march in the parade on 3 July. The city’s first-ever Pride Month launches on 1 June, the theme being belonging and inclusion, reports CBC News.

Along with the Prime Minister, Finance Minister Bill Morneau, Ontario Premier Kathleen Wynne and Toronto Mayor John Tory are also slated to take part, reports The Huffington Post. This is the first of it’s kind in political leadership. Organisers have said gay Syrian refugees will have a place at the Pride events.

Black Lives Matter will lead this summer Pride parade. The Toronto chapter of the activist group has made headlines for its criticism of police carding as well as the shooting deaths of black men in distress like Andrew Loku. Pride Toronto said in a statement that it hopes the group will “enable conversations about the intersections of liberation, race, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression,” at the July 3 parade.

“We look forward to standing beside and honouring the extremely important and significant work of Black Lives Matter – Toronto, who are leading a timely movement in our city both boldly and fiercely,” said Alica Hall, of Pride Toronto. Alicia added by stating, those involved in Pride “welcome the opportunity to learn from the coalition, celebrate their successes and give support to the continued fight for black lives.” In addition to marching in the parade, Black Lives Matter members will hold a free panel discussion linking its movement and queer politics on June 29.

“There’s no pride in anti-black racism, so this year, let us as a community, come together to provide space for black people, and our struggles, locally and globally,” said Black Lives Matter – Toronto’s Co-founder Rodney Diverius.

The parade’s other honorary positions, including the grand marshal, will be announced later this year.

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