Men’s rights group barred from Toronto’s Pride Parade

Controversial men’s rights group, the Canadian Association for Equality (CAFE), has officially been banned from Toronto’s Pride parade, in a decision rendered by Pride Toronto’s Dispute Resolution Process (DRP).

According to a statement from Pride Toronto, the arbitration process was sparked by numerous complaints regarding the controversial group’s application to march in this year’s parade.

Pride Toronto faced intense criticism regarding the prospect of CAFE’s participation, critics of the group decrying a misogynist and anti-feminist agenda.

Though it rejects an anti-feminist label, CAFE has repeatedly been associated with anti-feminist groups, prompting heated protests at its past events.

And while CAFE continues to claim a commitment to “achieving equality for all Canadians”, including those of the LGTBQ community, many critics insist the group’s values are entirely contrary to that of Pride.

DRP Arbitrator Paul Bent described a “balancing of interests” in coming to the decision.

“I considered CAFE’s response that inclusion, diversity and equality are values the organization shares with Pride versus the numerous complaints filed against CAFE’s participation arguing that CAFE, as an organization and through its affiliation with men’s rights groups, contravenes Pride Toronto’s vision to, “create a safe space to engage communities in the celebration of their sexuality.”

“I must give the complaints of members of the LGBTTIQQ2SA community precedence when they indicate the participation of CAFE could directly undermine the participation of queer, lesbian and trans women in the Pride Parade,” said Bent.

The decision bars CAFE’s participation at all future parades and events organized by Pride Toronto.

After participating in the 2013 parade, CAFE’s 2014 permit to march was revoked days before the event.

Pride Toronto kicks off on Friday, June 19, and will feature 10 days of events for the LGTBQ celebration.

With files from Tara Deschamps