Overview of the Promise

During his campaign for prime minister, Mark Carney pledged to protect the safety of 2SLGBTQI+ people, specifically by maintaining support for Fierté Canada Pride in administering funding for security needs at Pride festivals across the country. This commitment aimed to address rising hate crimes and ensure safe celebrations amid global backlash against diversity initiatives.

Actions Taken by the Carney Government

Since taking office in 2025, Prime Minister Mark Carney has actively supported this promise through direct government funding and public engagements. In June 2025, Carney announced $1.5 million in federal funding to enhance security at Pride festivals nationwide, administered by Fierté Canada Pride. This initiative was highlighted during a Pride flag-raising ceremony on Parliament Hill, where Carney emphasized the need for federal intervention due to increasing backlash and safety concerns.

The funding builds on previous years' efforts, marking the third consecutive year of such support, now continued under Carney's leadership. This allocation has helped local Pride organizations cover heightened security costs, enabling events to proceed safely despite sponsorship losses from corporations amid diversity backlash.

Carney personally participated in the 2025 Vancouver Pride Parade, becoming the second sitting prime minister to march in such an event, symbolizing government commitment. Additionally, on August 26, 2025, the government reaffirmed its support for 2SLGBTQI+ communities through the Federal 2SLGBTQI+ Action Plan, announcing achievements in advancing equality and addressing challenges.

Related Legislation and Policy Measures

No new specific legislation has been proposed or passed directly tied to this promise, as it focuses on maintaining existing funding mechanisms rather than enacting new laws. The support is channeled through Women and Gender Equality Canada, building on the 2022 Federal 2SLGBTQI+ Action Plan, which initially committed $100 million over five years to support these communities. Carney's administration has continued this framework, with the $1.5 million emergency funding for 2025 Pride security fitting into broader equality initiatives without requiring new parliamentary bills.

However, discussions around potential expansions, such as IVF funding for 2SLGBTQI+ Canadians mentioned in Carney's platform, indicate ongoing policy development, though these are separate from the Pride security focus.

Outcomes and Challenges

The funding has been praised by Pride groups in provinces like Nova Scotia and Ontario, who noted it was essential for safe events amid rising security costs and hate incidents. Events like the Vancouver Pride Parade proceeded with large attendance despite scaled-down formats due to private sponsorship pullbacks. Critics, including some conservative outlets, have questioned the use of taxpayer funds, but the government has defended it as necessary for public safety and inclusivity.

While the promise emphasizes maintaining support, the 2025 funding announcement and administration through Fierté Canada Pride demonstrate fulfillment of the specified outcome.

Overall Status

This promise is kept.