With a mission to amplify the voices of the 2SLGBTQIA+ communities and to offer inclusive and safe events through its festival, Fierté Montréal reaffirms its invitation to all communities to take part in the celebrations.
Following complaints about statements deemed hateful, the organization announced last week its intention to deny participation in the Parade to certain organizations, some of which represent the Jewish community. Although this was not Fierté Montréal’s intention, the announcement was perceived by the Jewish community in Québec (and especially by Jewish members of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community) as a way to exclude them from its events. This does not reflect the inclusive values that guide Fierté Montréal’s actions.
The organization is committed to improving its internal complaint management processes to ensure that a situation like this one does not happen again and that no communities feel left out from its future festivities.
An Important Dialogue
Fierté Montréal wishes for every community, regardless of religious affiliation, to feel welcome at its events and to be able to participate in a safe and inclusive environment. In this spirit, the organization extends its apologies to the Jewish communities and specially to Jewish members of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community.
The organization has reached out to representatives of the Jewish community, including CIJA, to clarify the situation and to ensure a space that is inclusive and safe for everyone, especially for Jewish members of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community who wish to take part in the Parade. These discussions have helped clarify each party’s stance and reaffirm a shared commitment to Fierté Montréal’s values of inclusion and respect.
A Call for Kindness to Ensure the Safety of All
As 2SLGBTQIA+ rights face growing challenges around the world, Fierté Montréal urges all participants in the coming days’ events to act with respect and kindness to help create a safe and inclusive environment for everyone.
The Fierté Montréal Festival has been in full swing since July 31 and will conclude on August 10.
“Fierté Montréal has always stood firmly against all forms of violence inflicted on marginalized populations or groups, including antisemitism, and remains committed to doing so. As 2SLGBTQIA+ rights continue to erode around the world, we have a responsibility to provide an inclusive and safe gathering space for all participants, regardless of their religious or cultural background. This is a commitment we will continue to uphold in collaboration with all organizations taking part in our events.”
— Marlot Marleau
President, Fierté Montréal
About Fierté Montréal
Since 2007, Fierté Montréal has been amplifying the voices of 2SLGBTQIA+ communities to promote their visibility, inclusion, and the recognition of their rights in society. As agents of social change, our festival, community initiatives, and artistic and cultural projects celebrate the creativity and resilience of our communities. In close collaboration with 2SLGBTQIA+ communities, we highlight their struggles and lived realities to the broader public and institutions. Fierté Montréal’s activities take place in Tiohtià:ke, on the unceded territory of the Kanien’kehá:ka Nation, whom we recognize as the custodians of the lands and waters on which we gather. Tiohtià:ke is historically known as a gathering place for many First Nations; today, it is home to a diverse Indigenous population, as well as other peoples. With deep respect for the ties that connect past, present, and future, we honour the ongoing relationships between Indigenous Peoples and other members of the Montréal community.
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