War of words amid protests over raising of pride flag at Surrey RCMP headquarters

SURREY (NEWS 1130) – There were both protests and cheers outside the office of the Surrey RCMP Monday morning, as Mounties raised a pride flag to show support for the LGBTQ2+ community.

About 60 supporters and opponents jockeyed for physical and vocal space as the RCMP hoisted the rainbow flag, which represents diversity and inclusion. Standing on opposite sides of the entrance to the office, the opposing factions started off in arguments, those for the flag voicing loud support and attempting to drown out the protesters, who sang the national anthem.

Some photos showing the back and forth between protesters at the pride flag raising ceremony at @SurreyRCMP office. No violence, save for a few elbows in the ribs as people jostle for position in the crowd. pic.twitter.com/mUG7KMHf55

— Lasia Kretzel (@lkretzel1130) June 24, 2019

Cindy Dalglish says she needed to be there to show support for the flag for LGBTQ2+ youth.

“I want them to know they are loved and supported and cared for. Just like the RCMP, they want to make sure they are included and safe,” she said. “The LGBTQ community flag is not about excluding anyone, it’s about including everyone.”

Those against the flag said this is about free speech and equality, of having all flags flown –  including those of religions. They claim they have no opposition to the LGBTQ community but don’t want it taught in schools, don’t want tax money going to such causes, and feel the RCMP should not be perceived as taking sides.

Despite protestors saying they have no problem w/ LGBTQ community, here’s an exchange during today’s flag raising:
Asked if they have ever been to a pride parade:
Protestor 1 “Never, and proud of it.”
Protestor 2 “Never, never, never” pic.twitter.com/tiKKcB194Q

— Lasia Kretzel (@lkretzel1130) June 24, 2019

One organizer said the pride flag is divisive.

“When an organization that’s supposed to be politically neutral starts to give special rights and promotion of one group’s political agenda – that’s overstepping of boundaries,” Kari Simpson said.

Many, including organizers, voiced anti-LGBTQ sentiments.

In the end, the pride flag was raised between the arches of the office entrance to cheers from supporters. Despite a few arguments and elbows in ribs among the crowd, the event was peaceful and eventually dispersed.