Organizers pushing on amid controversy surrounding Sophie Grégoire Trudeau event

Following significant backlash and threats towards next week’s fireside chat with Sophie Grégoire Trudeau in Kelowna, organizers say they remain committed to hosting the event.

"This is not about politics. This is about the strength in diversity and the power of engaging in conversations that may be uncomfortable, but need to be heard," says Quinn, a co-organizer of the event.

“We can’t shy away from tough topics, and that’s exactly what ‘Stories That Matter’ is about—highlighting narratives that may challenge us, but that ultimately unite us as Canadians and as residents of Kelowna.”

The fireside chat with Trudeau at the newly established Kelowna Event Centre was announced last week and is set to take place on April 2.

Organizers say that following the event's announcement, they received significant backlash and threats because of her association with public political figures.

“Despite this, they (the organizers) remain undeterred, reaffirming that this event is about the conversations that matter—the ones that allow us to find common ground even in disagreement,” reads a press release.

“This is a call to action for the residents of Kelowna and all Canadians to reject divisiveness and instead, embrace the strength of our diversity. We cannot act like our neighbours to the south and lose who we are as Canadians.”

The event is part of the ‘Stories that Matter’ monthly series, which “seeks to challenge conventional thinking and invite audiences to reflect on the stories that define us, as Canadians and as human beings.”

Organizers added that the event promises to be a powerful and thought-provoking evening while providing the opportunity to engage in conversation that goes beyond politics.

“We believe that Kelowna is stronger than the forces of hate and division. This is a city that thrives on community, respect and inclusivity, and we need to embody that spirit even in moments of discomfort,” added John, another one of the event’s organizers.

"We can, and we must, do better. Let’s show the world that Kelowna, as part of this beautiful nation, is a place that values thoughtful, meaningful discussions—where we seek the truth even when we don’t agree."

More information on the event can be found online at this link.

_{Thumbnail photo courtesy of Sophie Grégoire Trudeau/Facebook.}