Basran proud for Pride

Photo: Contributed

Kelowna Mayor Colin Basran isn't going to let some criticism prevent him from doing what he thinks is right.

Basran says he has seen some criticism on Facebook after it was learned he would be grand marshall for Kelowna's Pride March on Aug. 15. The march is the culmination of a week's worth of events and activities during Pride Week, Aug. 8-15.

"I think that just comes with the territory and the nature of my position," said Basran.

"I am not going to let any criticism dissuade me. I am proud to stand with my friends, and I am honoured they asked me to be the grand marshall."

Basran said serving as grand marshall wasn't on his mind when he first answered the call to take part.

"The Pride Society put a call out for flag bearers for the march, and I actually offered my name up and said I would be happy to carry a flag because I believe in the movement and I believe in an inclusive and accepting community," said Basran.

"They actually came to me and said 'How about one better. Would you be interested in being our grand marshall?' I said absolutely."

He said taking part in the march was an easy decision.

"I truly believe people deserve the right to live in the community and be the people they were born to be, free of discrimination."

As for past controversy involving then-mayor Walter Gray, who lost a human rights challenge for refusing to sign a Pride Week proclamation, Basran said that had nothing to do with his decision.

"The controversy that happened in the past is not something that ever entered into my mind. I am doing this because I believe this is what's best for our community."