Photo Credit: Oxford county website Ingersoll Mayor Brian Petrie has shared a statement regarding the protests that occurred outside recent Drag Storytime events in Ingersoll and Tillsonburg. INGERSOLL – It was a day filled with emotions for Brian Petrie, the Mayor of Ingersoll. The mayor issued a statement after attending the two drag storytime events at the Oxford County Library branches in Ingersoll and Tillsonburg on Saturday. He expressed disappointment seeing protesters shouting at attendees. “I saw things that I hoped I would never see. I saw adults yell at children and their families as they entered the event. I saw a group flash white power symbols as they got out of their vehicles. I heard those same individuals say the vilest things they could think about to random strangers. I saw grown men try to stop the event by taking over the children’s area and argue with police while holding bibles. I saw more grown adults surround the area of children, trying to watch the show, holding cards with their opinions on them. I saw a person who wants to represent Oxford with this
group. In short, I saw a group of people demonstrate that they only care about their beliefs and not the right of others to have their own. A group that was only there to show ignorance and hate towards something they couldn’t understand.” Petrie mentioned both events continued despite the protests. “I saw two brave, powerful performers flawlessly complete their shows, to the cheers of the kids, under less than ideal circumstances. I saw them hold their ground while insults and stares were hurled at them, all for dressing differently. I saw our library staff act highly professional throughout these events, never wavering under an incredibly stressful time. I saw the OPP in attendance, de-escalating the situation multiple times and ensure the safety of all that attended, and I thank them for their professionalism.” Petrie feels both events turned out well since most families and children enjoyed themselves. He adds that he is proud to be part of an organization like Oxford County Library which upholds its mission as a place for knowledge. According to a post on the Oxford County Library Facebook page, four stories were read during each storytime. The Kindness Book by Todd Parr, Big Wig by Jonathan Hillman, and I’m a Unicorn by Helen Yoon were read at both events. Those attending the Ingersoll storytime also got to hear My Shadow is Purple by Scott Stuart, while Love the World by Todd Parr was read in Tillsonburg. The next Drag Storytime event is scheduled for this Saturday during Oxford County Pride Family Day in Museum Square. Source link
