In response to the frequent comments Maclennan sees or hears doubting the legitimacy of the need for safe spaces for the 2SLGBTQI+ community, the communications director for North Bay Pride is sharing examples of recent online hate the group has been targeted with. On Monday, North Bay Pride announced due to the "alarming rise in hate both in person and online," it would not hold its traditional pride parade this year. North Bay Pride is grateful for Wong-Tam's support. According to Mark Pelayo, a spokesperson for Minister of Citizenship and Multiculturalism Michael Ford, “There is no place for hate in Ontario. Based on discussions with community partners, including 2SLGBTQQIA+ organizations, the grant has been redesigned and expanded to ensure additional organizations can benefit and more safety and security measures are covered.”See also: North Bay Pride unveils September lineup — says hate unwelcomeNorth Bay Pride Week runs from September 13 to 17.
