RCMP ready to march with Pride

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This article was published 21/06/2016 (2864 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

RCMP said today they fully support the LGBT community and the Steinbach Pride March for Equality.

“Our officers will be there to ensure security and are looking forward to walking alongside participants on July 9th,” said RCMP in a statement Wednesday.

Police said they are working with event organizers to find a safe route for the parade and its participants.

In May, at the time of event’s announcement, RCMP indicated the July 9 march would need to be restricted to sidewalks citing potential construction conflicts and lack of RCMP resources. RCMP acknowledged in their Wednesday statement that a parade permit was initially declined for safety reasons but that they were reassessing the request.

“Our primary concern was and remains the safety of event participants,” RCMP said in the statement.

Steinbach City Council issued its own statement on Wednesday afternoon about the equality march.

“Steinbach is a welcoming community to all. Our residents and our faith institutions have proven this many times by accepting newcomers to our city from all over the world. From a small Mennonite settlement in 1874 to the third largest city in Manitoba today, Steinbach residents are appreciative of our city’s many accomplishments.

Council believes that all people, including those who identify as LGBTQ, deserve to be treated with love and respect at all times. Council also recognizes the importance of respecting the rights of individuals and organizations who hold different beliefs from those in the LGBTQ community. Everyone in our city has the right to express their views in a peaceful and respectful manner.

Council has not officially endorsed the July 9 Pride March. Steinbach residents will decide for themselves whether they wish to attend this event.

Steinbach is a safe community for all. Let’s continue to foster a caring and respectful community.”