What was billed as "a bold expression of resilience, joy, and creative brilliance" instead turned ugly during the 4th annual Pride Arts Festival in Osoyoos, Saturday.

Keisha McLean from the Pride Arts committee issued a detailed statement, Tuesday evening, which The Herald is publishing unedited.

"Pride Arts Festival envisions a future where historically underrepresented communities can freely and equitably find representation within the festival sector. During our 4th annual Pride Arts Festival, we encountered homophobic and transphobic harassment at both the Pride Parade and Festival. These incidents only affirm the importance of this landmark event, which offers a vital platform for culturally underrepresented creatives to showcase their work and fully participate in community life.

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