While the Sochi games provide an opportunity to showcase the best winter athletes in the world, they're also a focal point for those speaking out against Russia’s anti-gay laws.
Olympic pride has arrived in Simcoe County. Both Barrie and Orillia city halls are flying the pride flag in a show of solidarity to the LGBT community here and abroad.
“It’s really become an international movement just to show a symbol of inclusion and diversity,” says Barrie Mayor Jeff Lehman. “I think because there has been a lot of concern around this in Canada and around the world. We wanted to join the movement.”
While some have bristled at politicizing the Olympic Games, David Bradbury with Barrie Pride says this gesture doesn't take away from the athletes.
“The side that's politicizing this is the government in Russia with these anti-gay laws that are hurting the community there and when we see those videos on YouTube of people being hurt and beaten because of who they are, that needs to be challenged everywhere,” he says.
Canadian cities from coast to coast have raised pride flags over the past few days. But these flags have not been without controversy. On Friday, Toronto Mayor Rob Ford said he wanted the pride flag at city hall taken down. And today our viewers weighed in on Facebook, some saying the issue is taking away from the Olympics.
Jenn Rebidoux says: “It's not the time or place. We should just leave politics out of the Games. Instead focus on patriotic pride when supporting our athletes.”
Matt David says: “In a country where gay rights are celebrated this makes complete sense. But let's focus on the athletic competition and show our support at the same time.”
At the moment no other municipality in our region has plans to raise the pride flag in their community.
