Pride Ottawa: No one is free until we are all free

Pride is, and always has been, a protest – and 2SLGBTQIA+ communities have always understood the basic truth that no one is free until we are all free.

CAPE stands in solidarity with Capital Pride. We applaud its statement of Palestine solidarity, and their stance against antisemitism and Israel’s ongoing genocide in Gaza. Like Capital Pride, CAPE stands unequivocally against antisemitism, Islamophobia, and anti-Palestinian racism.

The cancellations of various groups’ participation are especially dismaying this year when it is more important now than ever to stand in solidarity with 2SLGBTQIA+ communities, which have been facing rising hate and discrimination – especially the trans community. Our members deserve much better than the hollow support of those who call themselves allies – such as the Liberal Party and the Public Service Pride Network – but then yield to the demands of bullies.

To all 2LSGBTQIA+ and allied public sector workers: your union will always be a vehicle for you to fight for your rights. As a democratic space, CAPE belongs to its members, including its 2SLGBTQIA+ members. The union is here for you unconditionally, for fights inside the workplace and outside of it. 

 

Join CAPE and our fellow public service unions at the Capital Pride parade on Sunday, August 25. We can’t wait to see you there! CAPE members are also encouraged to join CAPE’s contingent at the Trans March, on Friday, August 23 at Bank and Gladstone at 6 pm.