Pride and prejudice: Wortley Pride event learning from controversy during inaugural event
The second annual Wortley Pride Festival takes place June 10 on the Green in Wortley Village.
During the inaugural Wortley Pride event in 2022, a disruption occurred that led to charges against a London, Ont. man for causing a disturbance and possession of a weapon dangerous to the public.
The altercation between Richard Sillers and festival goers was off putting for organizers but they have learned from that experience in preparation for Saturday’s event.
“We weren't prepared at all for any protester,” said President Kathy Bell-Copeland. “We didn't believe that there would be any in the heart of Wortley Village from that we've learned and we've pre planned and we have taken the steps to make sure that everyone is going to be safe.”
The event has been the focus of social media posts this week, saying a large group will be on hand to protest the drag story time, similar to a protest that occurred in April in Parkhill, Ont.
Galaxy Rose, the performer who will be reading to the kids said it has weighed on their mind.
“For me like it's always in the back of my mind. Like maybe this is the event that violence happens. But I have to push that aside because at the end of the day, it's for the kids and those are the ones that that we're creating these spaces for,” Rose said.
A man was arrested and charged with criminal offences after what London Police call a “large physical disturbance” during the Wortley Pride Festival on July 16, 2022. (Source: Jason Plant)
But as the saying goes, the show must go on, and Rose doesn't believe the protestors will be able to dampen the spirit of the event.
“Because when you're showing up in a big gown, like lots of colors, their eyes lit up, right? And they can you can see that it means something to them and so I always power through just for them,” they said.
The London Police Service will also be on hand.
“London police will be in the area throughout the day to ensure a safe and inclusive event,” said Const. Sandasha Bough.
Bell-Copeland hopes those who come to the event will get to enjoy it and ignore any protestors that do show up.
“This event is meant to be about love and acceptance and being who you are and your authentic self,” she said.
Festivities start at 11 a.m. at the Green in Wortley Road and runs through the afternoon. Face painting, a photo booth, an all ages drag show, and drag story time are just some of the events taking place.
CTVNews.ca Top Stories
Why these immigrants to Canada say they're thinking about leaving, or have already moved on
For some immigrants, their dreams of permanently settling in Canada have taken an unexpected twist.
DEVELOPING Live updates from the Trump hush money trial: Stormy Daniels, bookkeeper testify
Adult film star Stormy Daniels is on the stand a second time Thursday as former U.S. president Donald Trump’s hush money case continues in Manhattan. Follow live updates here.
Ontario family receives massive hospital bill as part of LTC law, refuses to pay
A southwestern Ontario woman has received an $8,400 bill from a hospital in Windsor, Ont., after she refused to put her mother in a nursing home she hated -- and she says she has no intention of paying it.
Here are the ultraprocessed foods you most need to avoid, according to a 30-year study
Studies have shown that ultraprocessed foods can have a detrimental impact on health. But 30 years of research show they don’t all have the same impact.
Miss Teen USA steps down just days after Miss USA's resignation
Miss Teen USA resigned Wednesday, sending further shock waves through the pageant community just days after Miss USA said she would relinquish her crown.
B.C. wildfires likely to spread with weekend temperatures expected to soar, province says
Wildfire and emergency management officials in British Columbia are urging residents to be prepared for increased fire activity as temperatures are expected to soar above 30 C in parts of the province this weekend.
Listowel, Ont. football player drafted, despite only three years of experience
A Listowel, Ont. man, drafted by the Hamilton Tigercats last week, is also getting looks from the NFL, despite only playing 27 games of football in his life.
Ontario man frustrated after $3,500 paving job leaves driveway in shambles
An Ontario man considering having his driveway paved received a quote from a company for $7,000, but then, another paver in the neighbourhood knocked on his door and offered half that rate.
BREAKING Sheldon Keefe out as head coach of Toronto Maple Leafs
The Toronto Maple Leafs have fired head coach Sheldon Keefe. The team made the announcement Thursday after the Original Six franchise lost to the Boston Bruins in seven games in the first round of the Stanley Cup playoffs.