The Capital Pride organization has removed its controversial 2024 statement expressing solidarity with Palestine. This decision comes as the Pride Parade approaches, scheduled for August 24, 2025. The original statement, released on August 6, 2024, acknowledged the ongoing conflict in Gaza and described it as an "ongoing genocide." It also included a commitment to integrate a boycott list into sponsorship reviews.

Masha Davidovic, a member of Queers for Palestine – Ottawa, expressed disappointment over the removal. She stated, "Many of our community members live at the intersection of different identities that can’t be separated from each other. Those solidarity values are a key part of our history." Davidovic felt that the original statement set a "positive tone" for the Pride festivities, allowing diverse community members to feel a sense of belonging.

The statement sparked significant backlash, leading to withdrawals from various entities, including the City of Ottawa, Mayor Mark Sutcliffe, and the Children’s Hospital of Eastern Ontario. In contrast, over 50 local businesses, unions, and LGBTQ+ organizations supported Capital Pride's message.

Despite the removal, Capital Pride's executive director, Callie Metler, emphasized that the organization still stands by its original values. "While Capital Pride did remove the 2024 statement in support of Palestine from our online environment, we do not retract our position," she stated.

The reasons behind the removal of the statement remain unclear, as Capital Pride did not respond to inquiries regarding the timing or rationale. Some organizations that boycotted last year’s events have indicated plans to participate in this year’s parade. Kathryn McGarry, president of the Ontario Liberal Party, noted that the party chose not to march last year due to concerns that the statement did not reflect an inclusive spirit.

Sutcliffe has expressed enthusiasm for participating in the upcoming Pride celebrations, and representatives from the City of Ottawa and CHEO have also confirmed their involvement. The Ottawa Hospital will not have an official float but encourages staff to attend.

The Jewish Federation of Ottawa had boycotted Capital Pride in 2024, citing concerns over the organization's stance and its impact on the safety of the Jewish community. Adam Silver, the federation's president, stated that the decision was not made lightly, emphasizing the need for an inclusive environment.

In its original statement, Capital Pride accused Israel of "pinkwashing," a term used to describe superficial support for LGBTQ+ rights that does not lead to genuine inclusion. The statement also highlighted the intersection of Islamophobia and the conflict in Gaza.

This year’s Capital Pride theme, "We Are the Village," aims to recognize the importance of community and advocacy. The upcoming parade is expected to feature over 225 groups and more than 11,000 participants.

Davidovic and Queers for Palestine – Ottawa have launched a campaign urging Capital Pride to reinstate the pro-Palestinian statement. The petition has garnered over 50 organizational signatories and more than 1,000 emails from community members. Davidovic remarked, "Last year’s statement set an incredibly positive tone and was widely supported by our community. Taking down the statement looks like backtracking."

Sam Hersh, a member of Independent Jewish Voices Ottawa, criticized the removal, stating, "To be frank, I think it was a little bit weird that they went back and took down a statement that was already just on their website."

In addition to reinstating the statement, the campaign calls for transparency regarding sponsors and a public town hall for community discussions. Capital Pride has not responded to questions about its sponsorship disclosure plans.

Metler reiterated the organization’s commitment to creating a safe and welcoming environment, even when addressing difficult topics. Davidovic noted that the LGBTQ+ community has a deep understanding of marginalization, which compels them to support other movements for justice.

As discussions continue within the community, it remains uncertain whether Queers for Palestine – Ottawa will participate in the upcoming Pride events.