By Lattitia Taylor
Both Bob Chiarelli and Alex Munter pledged their support for the creation of a community centre for the growing gay community at the first ever mayoral debate on gay issues.
“[The debate was one step closer] for city hall and all its departments in understanding there’s a gay community rather than just a collection of gay individuals,” says Gareth Kirkby, the managing editor of Capital Xtra, a gay newspaper.
The discussion of a community centre for gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender people in Ottawa received much attention during the debate. Chiarelli and Munter said they both support the creation of such a community centre and aim to have one opened in the next four years.
They said the best location would be in the Bank Street area around Somerset Street. Many members of the gay and lesbian community have petitioned to have this area officially designated as the Rainbow Village or “Gaybourhood.”
Chiarelli, the incumbent, says he worked to get $5,000 for a group to design a plan for the community centre and is currently helping them move the project along.
Munter rebutted the claim by saying Chiarelli allocates too much time assigning task forces and analyzing matters, but is small on creating results.
Both Chiarelli and Munter said if the gay and lesbian community continues to develop the Rainbow Village organically, it will be appropriate to give it a special designation, although not yet.
“We will work in partnership to create the circumstances so that the Rainbow Village can grow and thrive and become a destination,” Chiarelli said.
With 38 gay, lesbian, bisexual transsexual organizations and businesses in the Bank St. area, Kirkby says the community has already grown organically over the last couple of decades.
“The reality is that our community…is here already,” says Kirkby. “City hall has been really lack luster in its response. They don’t recognize the change that’s happening in their own city.”
Munter said neighbourhoods don’t become known for one thing or another because somebody has given it a specific title.
He recommended producing a special business improvement association aimed at attracting more gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender-operated businesses and continue developments in the area. He believes the area has the potential to generate tourist interest.
Another matter which aroused attention was Larry O’Brien’s absence from the debate.
Kirkby says he was disappointed and a little shocked because he had personally approached O’Brien, who was booked to attend the event prior to Munter and Chiarelli.
“[That afternoon], I was informed he wasn’t going to be there. It’s really disappointing,” says Kirkby.
Munter also expressed disappointment, saying he believes it’s important that candidates participate in all debates.