Drag Queen Story Time Protests Continue in Peterborough

Strategic Insights -

Another Drag Queen Story Time event took place at the Peterborough Public Library on Saturday, with protesters and counter-protesters gathering outside. Local drag performer Betty Baker was inside reading to children and families, while a mix of Save Canada activists and white nationalist Kevin Goudreau demonstrated outside. Despite the tensions, supporters of Baker outnumbered the protesters, with police intervening at times to maintain order.

Key Takeaways:

  • For the second time this year, protesters gathered outside the Peterborough Public Library during a Drag Queen Story Time event.
  • Save Canada, a Christian youth organization, was represented by members wearing red baseball caps, while white nationalist Kevin Goudreau also appeared.
  • Counter-protesters, including supporters of drag performer Betty Baker, outnumbered the protesters, with some estimates suggesting a ratio of 3:1.
  • Police were present throughout the event, intervening at times to separate protesters and counter-protesters.
  • A man dressed as a fox was escorted away by police for his own safety.
  • The event is part of ongoing controversy surrounding Drag Queen Story Time events, which some see as promoting LGBTQ+ ideology.

Statistics:

  • At least 50 people attended the protest, with estimates suggesting a rival counter-protest of over 150.
  • Police reported no injuries or significant incidents during the event.
  • This is the second Drag Queen Story Time event to draw protests in Peterborough this year.

Sources:

  • CBC News, "Drag Queen Story Time protest draws counter-protesters in Peterborough"
  • Peterborough Examiner, "Drag Queen Story Time event sparks protest in Peterborough"
  • Toronto Star, "White nationalist spotted at Peterborough Drag Queen Story Time protest"