Pride organizers staying vigilant following altercation

Organizers of Capital Pride are keeping a close eye on securityafter agroup of protestersinterrupted adrag queen storytelling eventon Saturday in west Ottawa.

The group took the opportunity during a question and answer period to call the event "child abuse" and try to insult the hosts.

Volunteers and police were on hand at a picnic to celebrate LGBTQ families in Hintonburg Park on Sundayto ensure demonstratorswere kept out.

"The incidents [Saturday] are deeply concerning and troubling," said festival director Toby Whitfield.

"Today we've got lots of extra folks that have shown up to show their support,to be in solidarity with the community [and]helpkeep the space safe."

In a statement issued Sunday, Capital Pride saidit's"reviewing its safety and security plans for its events this week and will continue to work with its partners at the City of Ottawa, and in the community, to monitor and respond to incidents."

Ottawa police saidofficers were sent to the picnic after receivinga special request on Sunday morning.

They said they will make themselvesavailable to attend events, as necessary, throughout the week to ensure people feel safe.

Pride more important than ever

Picnic organizerAndr Fontainesaid the incident Saturday highlights theimportance Pride festivals play in combating homophobia and celebrating theLGBTQ community.

"It's really unfortunate that we're in2019 and this discrimination still exists. I'm really, really upset that that happened, especially in front of children," he said.

"Every family should be celebrated. Every child, every person should be celebrated with all their diversity regardless of faith, race, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression."

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Lucy Chapmansaidas a parent who's been out since the early 1980s, she wasshocked and horrified to find out what happened Saturday.

"I have no problem with people voicing their opinion. Go for it," she said.

"But when it becomes aggressive and targeting people who might feel vulnerable, I'm not OK with that."