Toronto PFLAG responds to the controversy involving Mayor Rob Ford, addresses allegations of homophobic slur against Liberal Leader, Justin Trudeau by providing two anti-homophobia learning sessions for Mayor, City Councillors and staff

TORONTO, Nov. 18, 2013 /CNW/ - Toronto PFLAG is disheartened by Toronto Mayor, Rob Ford's recent admissions.  Initial allegations have also included reports from the Toronto Star alleging video evidence which includes the Mayor calling Liberal Leader, Justin Trudeau a "fag", a derogatory term Toronto PFLAG abhors and strongly condemns the use of. 

"For too long lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people have been subjected to terrible adversity based solely on their sexual orientation and gender identity," said Toronto PFLAG President, Irene Miller.  "They have been treated with contempt, derision and discrimination, and made to feel less than equal. Their families and loved ones also suffer when exposed to homophobic slurs."

As an organization that offers support and education to LGBTQ persons, their families, friends and allies, Toronto PFLAG feels the controversy has identified a timely opportunity for education about the damaging effects caused by homophobia and for a better understanding of what respect in the workplace, including City Hall, should be. 

"Our city is an active participant in the fight against all forms of discrimination and is committed to equal treatment of all people and their right to live with dignity and respect," Mayor Rob Ford read as he proclaimed the International Day Against Homophobia and Transphobia on May 17^th, 2013.  It is Toronto PFLAG's sincere hope that all of our elected officials at City Hall will epitomize and uphold these values both as individuals, and as our civic leaders, and will join us at one of our two Lunch and Learn sessions. 

The first of the two sessions will be held at City Hall this Wednesday, November 20^th at 12:30pm.  Each session will be a comprehensive, hour-long learning opportunity discussing the importance of diversity and respect and will include a complimentary lunch.  Details for the second session will be announced shortly. 

We appreciate all who stand up, step forward and visibly support the LGBTQ community.  Toronto PFLAG calls on the Mayor, and all of our City Councilors to stand behind the words of the Mayor's Proclamation and show support for Toronto's LGBTQ community by attending our Lunch & Learn.

Toronto PFLAG promotes the health and well-being of gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgendered persons, their families and friends by offering support and education in order to end discrimination. www.torontopflag.org

Image with caption: "Toronto PFLAG (CNW Group/PFLAG Toronto)". Image available at: http://photos.newswire.ca/images/download/20131118_C8434_PHOTO_EN_33444.jpg

SOURCE: PFLAG Toronto

Media Contact:
Bryn Hendricks
Director of Media and Public Relations, Toronto PFLAG
[email protected]   Direct: [phone]