Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney’s appearance at Vancouver’s Pride Parade, embracing a man in a thong, has ignited a firestorm. Conservatives slam the act as unbecoming of a leader, while supporters call it a bold stand for diversity. What does this mean for Canada’s image and Carney’s leadership?

Summary

• Canadian PM Mark Carney was photographed hugging a man in a pink thong at Vancouver’s Pride Parade on August 3, 2025.
• The image, shared widely online, has drawn sharp criticism from conservative circles for undermining the dignity of the prime minister’s office.
• Carney defended his actions, emphasizing Canada’s commitment to diversity and inclusion.
• The incident highlights broader tensions over cultural values and political optics in Canada.
• Event organizers noted a drop in Pride sponsorships, possibly linked to anti-DEI sentiment.

The Controversial Moment 

On Sunday, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney marched in Vancouver’s Pride Parade, an event celebrating the 2SLGBTQ+ community that drew an estimated 100,000 attendees. A photograph circulating online, first reported by the Daily Caller, captured Carney embracing a man wearing only a pink thong and a chest harness. The image has sparked outrage among conservatives, who argue it undermines the dignity of Canada’s highest office.

“This is not the behavior Canadians expect from their prime minister,” said Conservative Party leader Pierre Poilievre on X. “Carney’s stunt cheapens the office and distracts from real issues like the economy and tariffs.”

Carney’s Defense 

Carney, who assumed leadership of the Liberal Party in April 2025, defended his participation in the parade. “It’s Pride, it’s a celebration, it’s what is great about our country,” Carney said, as reported by CityNews Vancouver. “I’m just thrilled to be part of it.” He later described the parade as the “essence of Canada,” celebrating diversity in a “very positive way,” according to CJME.

During the parade, Carney marched for about a kilometre, engaging with supporters and receiving cheers. A drag queen handed him a microphone, prompting Carney to call the event “the best of Canada.” His actions align with his earlier commitment to 2SLGBTQ+ rights, including raising a Pride flag on Parliament Hill in June 2025 and announcing $1.5 million to enhance Pride event security amid rising hate crimes.

Conservative Backlash 

Conservatives have seized on the photograph as evidence of Carney’s misplaced priorities. “While Canadians struggle with inflation and U.S. tariffs, Carney’s out there hugging half-naked men,” said Fox Business host Charles Payne, referencing Canada’s economic challenges under Carney’s leadership. Posts on X echoed this sentiment, with users like @TristinHopper calling Carney’s actions “morally bankrupt” and a betrayal of traditional Canadian values.

The backlash reflects broader conservative concerns about cultural shifts. Many view Carney’s participation as pandering to progressive ideals at the expense of addressing pressing issues like the U.S.-imposed 25% tariffs on Canadian goods, which Carney has criticized as a threat to national sovereignty.

Pride’s Challenges 

The Vancouver Pride Parade faced its own controversies, with organizers reporting a significant drop in sponsorships, from $900,000 last year to $500,000 in 2025. Morgane Oger, secretary of the Vancouver Pride Society, suggested that anti-DEI sentiment, particularly from the U.S., may be a factor. “There have been reports that U.S. government contractors are under pressure not to be involved with equity-related activities or sponsoring,” Oger told CityNews Vancouver.

This decline in funding has raised concerns about the event’s future, with Oger noting the need for permits, insurance, and grants to sustain operations. The Vancouver Police Department also increased security due to a alleged uptick in hate crimes targeting sexual orientation, with 860 such incidents recorded in Canada in 2023, according to CBC News.

Political Implications 

Carney’s appearance comes at a pivotal time. Elected as Liberal Party leader in April 2025, he led the party to a minority government victory, fending off a strong challenge from Poilievre’s Conservatives. However, his embrace of progressive causes like Pride risks alienating conservative voters, especially as Canada navigates economic tensions with the U.S. under President Donald Trump, who has praised Carney but imposed punitive tariffs.

For conservatives, the photograph is a rallying point to critique Carney’s leadership style. “Canadians want a prime minister focused on jobs and security, not photo ops at parades,” said political analyst Kirk LaPointe in a Business in Vancouver column.