Pride marchers in Steinbach, Man., get permission to walk on street

STEINBACH, Man. – Organizers of the first pride march in the heart of Manitoba’s so-called Bible Belt say they have won the right to walk on the city’s streets.

Planners were originally told that the parade on July 9 would have to stick to the sidewalk on Steinbach’s main street because of road construction and safety concerns.

But a message on the Steinbach Pride Facebook page Wednesday said that after talking with the RCMP, the group has chosen a different route and will be given a permit to march on the street.

“Several planning meetings took place with RCMP over the last few days that included detailed discussion about routes, safety, and the extensive and comprehensive security detail that will be provided,” the message says.

“The RCMP also negotiated with the city on behalf of Steinbach Pride and we are pleased to announce that we have been granted street access!!”

Manitoba RCMP declined to confirm details of the arrangement Wednesday.

“We are extremely satisfied with the results of the discussions that took place between the City of Steinbach, the march organizers and the RCMP and look forward to taking part in the event,” said a written statement from Mountie headquarters in Winnipeg.

The march has stirred up controversy in the small city. Member of Parliament Ted Falk has said he will not attend because the event does not match his values.

Steinbach’s mayor and legislature representative, citing prior commitments, have also indicated they are not attending.