Toronto’s 45th Pride Parade which took place yesterday, featured prominent political figures and vibrant celebrations of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Queer (LGBTQ+) pride.
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney and Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow made historic appearances by walking in the parade for the first time since the Prime Minister assumed office last year.
The festivities commenced around 2 p.m., with parade formations beginning along Rosedale Valley Road on Sunday morning.
The event prompted downtown street closures, which police indicated would be lifted by approximately 8 p.m.
This year’s parade theme was “We Won’t Stop,” emphasizing resilience and ongoing advocacy for LGBTQ+ rights.
Crowds gathered along the parade route, dancing and celebrating in a colorful display of unity and pride.
In interviews with attendees, several voices shared their perspectives and calls for change.
Chisom Elvis Wogwu, a Nigerian protester who identifies as bisexual, expressed his joy at participating.
“I am very delighted to be here today. I wouldn’t miss this event for anything in the world”, Wogwu enthused.
He urged Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to abolish the Same Sex Marriage Prohibition Act (SSMPA) of 2014 and to enact laws that would protect, respect, and recognize LGBTQ+ individuals in Nigeria and worldwide.
Another Nigerian attendee, Temitope Foluke Omoniyi, shared her personal journey from living in self-denial in Nigeria to openly embracing her bisexual identity in Canada.
She also appealed to Nigeria’s legislative authorities to pass laws that would safeguard LGBTQ+ rights, emphasizing the importance of acceptance and protection.
Tekena Peter Elayelagha, who also identifies as bisexual, called for global equality, inclusion, respect, and recognition of LGBTQ+ community members everywhere.
Frances Anosike, a first-time protester, who identifies as a bisexual, expressed excitement and solidarity, sending a heartfelt message to LGBTQ+ individuals worldwide.
“They won’t stop,” Frances declared, reaffirming the community’s resilience in demanding equality.
Lawal Fatimah Oyindamola, was also another Nigerian participant.
Oyindamola, who is bisexual, expressed gratitude to the Canadian government for providing a platform for LGBTQ+ members to celebrate their identities openly.
She urged the Nigerian government to recognize and respect LGBTQ+ rights.
Another Nigerian, Jamiu Adekunle Saliu, said he never imagined a day like this would come where the world would celebrate LGBTQ+ members, adding that he was proud and happy to identify as bisexual.
Saliu called on the Nigerian Legislature to protect LGBTQ+ members rights.
In a show of solidarity, Olaleye Mumini Damilare, felicitated with the LGBTQ+ community around the world,
Damilare said he had lived in self denial of his true sexual identity while he was in Nigeria, but has now embraced his true self.
Damilare asked the Nigerian government to protect and respect all citizens irrespective of their sexuality.
Another Nigerian, Eigbe Anthony Adanihoman Ifionayi, who also identifies as bisexual called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to write his name in gold and do what other Nigerian Presidents could not do, by abolishing the Same Sex Marriage Prohibition Act and allowing LGBTQ+ members a measure of latitude..
Lawal Faruk Abiodun, a Nigerian, who identifies as bisexual, begged Pres. Tinubu to allow LGBTQ+ members enjoy same equality, respect and protection accorded to others of different sexual orientation.
Abiodun opined this would enable Nigeria to flourish and prosper just as Canada.
Finally, Daniel Chima Amadi, urged unity among LGBTQ+ individuals across the globe.
“We are stronger in unity,” he said, emphasizing the importance of continued advocacy and support.
The event also highlighted ongoing challenges, particularly in Nigeria, where the SSMPA criminalizes same-sex relationships with penalties of up to ten years in prison.
The future of Nigeria’s stance on LGBTQ+ rights remains uncertain, with many advocates calling on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration to reconsider the law.
As the parade concluded, the message was clear – that the fight for equality, respect, and recognition for the LGBTQ+ community continues worldwide.
