A lesbian couple in Halifax, Canada, became victims of a brutal attack by a group of approximately 10 men on June 22, while celebrating one of their birthdays. The incident, captured on video, has sparked outrage and raised concerns about LGBTQ+ safety during Pride Month.
Emma MacLean and her girlfriend, identified only as ‘Tori,’ were walking in downtown Halifax when they encountered the group of men, whom MacLean believes to be of Middle Eastern descent and from Syria. The confrontation began when one of the men allegedly made a derogatory comment about MacLean, prompting Tori to defend her partner.
According to MacLean’s account to CTV News, the situation escalated rapidly when Tori attempted to confront the men about their inappropriate behavior. The group then allegedly began to physically assault Tori, pushing her onto cement stairs near the BMO Centre before punching and kicking her.
MacLean initially tried to verbally intervene but was ignored. She then attempted to physically protect her girlfriend, describing how she “jumped on one of their backs and put them in a chokehold – trying to restrain them.” The video footage shows one woman on the ground surrounded by attackers, while the other struggles to break free.
The assault only ended when a bystander alerted nearby police. However, by the time officers arrived, the fight had concluded. MacLean reported that when police spoke with one of the men involved, he blamed the altercation on the two women. The other men allegedly refused to cooperate with police or provide identification.
Both women sustained injuries from the attack. MacLean suffered a broken nose, a chipped tooth, and numerous bruises, while Tori had bruises all over her body. The incident has left MacLean “terrified to go downtown again in Halifax,” highlighting the impact of such violence on the LGBTQ+ community’s sense of safety.
As of the report, police were still investigating the incident, with no charges brought against the assailants. MacLean has shared photos of the men from the night of the attack, appealing for witnesses or anyone with additional information or video footage to come forward.
This violent assault during Pride Month underscores ongoing concerns about hate crimes and the safety of LGBTQ+ individuals, even in seemingly progressive areas. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the challenges still faced by the community and the need for continued vigilance and support.
Source: Daily MailOnline
