Statement from Mayor Jeff Leal regarding Drag Queen Story Time
Peterborough, ON – The following statements have been issued by City of Peterborough Mayor Jeff Leal and Peterborough Public Library Board Chair Dan Moloney in regard to concerns that have been raised in advance of the Drag Queen Story Time program at the Peterborough Public Library on Saturday, January 14, 2023.
“The City of Peterborough supports providing an inclusive, safe community for all residents. We strongly reject any act that incites hate in the community against any particular group. Peterborough Police Service was contacted ahead of the expected protest at Peterborough Public Library. Thank you to the Peterborough Public Library for promoting an inclusive community, offering programming for all residents,” Mayor Jeff Leal stated.
The City of Peterborough is a member of the Coalition of Inclusive Municipalities. Member municipalities must advance initiatives to:
- Improve their practices for social inclusion
- Establish policies to eradicate racism and discrimination
- Promote human rights and diversity
“The Library Board supports the Library in its endeavours to educate and support inclusivity. We are behind the Library staff and the offering of Drag Queen Story Time,” Library Board Chair Dan Moloney stated.
The Peterborough Police Service provides an online reporting tool for reporting hate/bias incidents.
-30-