Letter to the editor: Frustration growing over lack of LGBTQ+ leaders debate

As you have seen, we have tried endlessly to follow up on the invite for a community federal leaders debate, like what we briefly discussed during Pride Toronto, just before the parade started in 2018. You thought it was a great idea and someone was going to get in touch etc. We did talk, and then of course Covid arrived. 

We have had many great discussions that always ended supportive of this type of debate. Even the federal Debate Commission agreed with us.

We had a debate planned with Minister Chagger, however, it did not make sense to have a debate with a minister that is no longer a minister, so here we are in the middle of our pride schedule, trying to get a follow up on what you thought was a good idea.

We want to ensure, that we deliver on what we said we would.

We have other leaders waiting, a venue waiting, media interviews waiting for us to respond to, production waiting and a big media outlet waiting with 63 prides across Canada waiting and so forth. Could someone finally send us a commitment so we can get to work? This will be the biggest audience, you will ever get across Canada. I find it disturbing that you would allow this to go this long, without anything further, other than sending "we are talking about it." If you are waiting on the next debate, then tell us. If you want us to try something, then tell us.

You bend over backward to accommodate the federal debate commission and big media, but leave communities like us blowing in the breeze. Does no one appreciate us? The work we do? Do we not deserve the respect you give to others? Is it because we are LGBTQ+ community trying to get heard with other community members? You say you support us, but where are you now Mr. Prime Minister?

It would be greatly appreciated if you could send us an update on what you are waiting on.

Thank you

Jason Maclennan

Communications Director, North Bay Pride