SOGI Protesters and counter-protesters in Kamloops Wednesday (Sept 20) (image credit - CFJC Today)

By Michael Reeve

SOGI PROTEST

SOGI protesters and counter-protester collided at Kamloops Court House

Sep 20, 2023 | 12:24 PM

KAMLOOPS — Chants of no space no hate rang out across Columbia Street on Wednesday (Sept. 20) morning as counter-protesters quickly out-numbered the organizers of an anti-SOGI rally. Included in the counter-protestors was chair of the Kamloops District Parent Advisory Committee (DPAC) Chris Ponti.

“DPAC will always support the right for kids to have an inclusive and safe education experience. And that is something that the district and the teachers are trying to provide,” Ponti said.

While out numbered, the original protestors remained defiant in sharing their perspective that parental rights are being trampled on by school districts sharing Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity (SOGI) information with students.

“I really disagree with the SOGI, sexual orientation and gender identity, everyone is definitely free to be themselves, I respect that. I love everyone. I do not love the fact that my children are being somewhat forced to undertake this program. And I don’t appreciate a lot of the books in the library,” said a parent who wished to remain anonymous.

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“You guys are always twisting the truth, tell people the truth. Nobody is against the gay community. I have friends and family and I love them. I’m against what they are doing to the kids, period. Nothing to do against the gay community,” added another anonymous protester.

The protestor who wished to remain anonymous stated he believes the teaching of SOGI could lead to indoctrination of his children.

“I think that a slippery slope. I think that this program being brought into our schools without our consent that is where we start the indoctrination talk. I wasn’t asked about this for my kids, all my peers weren’t asked for this. We respect everyone, we love everyone. do what you want, be who you want, don’t force it on my kids.”

Students CFJC Today talked to, however, from Valleyview Secondary said that finding liked minded students through friendship groups has been a blessing.

“Initially entering school, I didn’t know how to make friends, where to find them, who would want to talk to me. But be able to have the Valleyview gender and sexuality alliance allowed me to find people that are like me,” Rayne said.

The counter protests were led by a number of local groups including the TRU Student Union, Pride Kamloops and the Kamloops United Church.

“I do a number of funerals and throughout my career I have done funerals of kids who believed they were gay or trans, and they have committed suicide. So, that is why I’m here, is I believe what we are doing is saving kids,” Rev. Michael Caveney said.

Prior to the protest, the School District 73 board released a statement reaffirming their commitment to inclusivity across the district.

“Given that the planned gatherings may cause LGBTQ2S+ students, staff, and families to face barriers and experience fear or a lack of safety in our community, we affirm your presence and emphasize our unwavering support for you to belong, be included, and safe in our schools and district facilities,” reads a statement from Board Chair Heather Grieve and Superintendent Dr. Rhonda Nixon.