There has been an ugly online exchange between two city councillors related to Capital Pride.
Councillor Catherine McKenney sent out a tweet Thursday promoting a community check-up event set for July 15th.
Hope to see you on Saturday, July 15 for my Community Check-Up at McNabb Park! #somerset #ottwalk #ottbike #ottcity #centretown #dalhousie pic.twitter.com/oo843jkEAF
— Catherine McKenney (@cmckenney) July 6, 2017
This was quote-tweeted by the community police officer in Somerset Ward who cordially responded saying she's looking forward to being there and meeting people.
The officer's response was then quote-tweeted by Councillor George Darouze this afternoon, asking McKenney if she wanted the Constable to show up with or without uniform.
. @cmckenney do you want @CstSLemieux to show up with or without uniform? https://t.co/2aYUQ2fj2e
— George Darouze (@GeorgeDarouze) July 7, 2017
This is a reference to Capital Pride asking officers not to wear their uniforms while marching in next month's parade.
McKenney's response to Darouze was "Are you asking because I'm gay?"
Are you asking because I'm gay?
— Catherine McKenney (@cmckenney) July 7, 2017
Darouze responded saying it was in reference to comments McKenney made in the Ottawa Citizen.
It the piece, she took no side but called Capital Pride's request a "fair ask."
Those are the exact words Darouze used referencing his own question.
That is absolutely not why. I'm responding to your comments that were posted in the Ottawa Citizen and in my opinion, it was a fair ask.
— George Darouze (@GeorgeDarouze) July 7, 2017
There have been split opinions at City Hall over whether to review funding Capital Pride next year over their decision on police uniforms.
Councillor Allan Hubley was first to bring the idea forward publicly. He has the support of Police Services Board Chair Eli El-Chantiry.
Mayor Jim Watson says he would not support withdrawing public money from the event.