Bordeleau reverses decision, will not wear uniform at Pride parade

Police chief won't wear uniform to Pride Parade Chief Charles Bordeleau decides not to wear his uniform to the upcoming Pride Parade.

In a complete reversal, Police Chief Charles Bordeleau says he'll no longer wear his uniform when marching in the Capital Pride parade.

After rejecting a request by organizers in July for officers to not wear their uniform, Bordeleau changed his position on Monday.

"The uniform is part of our identity. We're very proud of it, but it does not shape who we are as individuals," says Bordeleau.

He says officers who are part of the LGBTQ community were initially hurt and disappointed by the request from Pride organizers, but after internal discussions, it was the officers that made the recommendation not to be in uniform. Instead, they'll be wearing OPS golf shirts.

Bordeleau says the main reason for the reversal is the long-term impact of the force's relationship with the LGBTQ community.

"The officers understand and appreciate that...there are certain members of our community where the uniform represents different things," he says.

"Some members of our community don't have the relationship we should have with them."

Officers don't want the uniform to be the story on the day of the parade. Instead, they're hoping the focus will be on the spirit of inclusion and celebration.

Reaction has poured in online. On their Facebook page, Capital Pride welcomes the news, saying they "see this as a positive step forward in an effort to build on the existing relationship between local law enforcement and all LGBTQ2 residents within the National Capital Region."

On Twitter, Mayor Jim Watson thanks Bordeleau for working towards the solution, adding he's glad officers can proudly march in OPS clothing.

In an email, Ottawa Police Association President Matt Skof says "the membership still takes great issue with the prejudice shown by the Pride organizers." It goes on to say "members approached the Chief and he engaged by consulting with them.  A difficult decision, but one that was deemed necessary at this time."

Capital Pride week starts August 21, culminating with the parade on the 27th.