Protesters gather outside Peterson event at Centre in the Square

An event shadowed by controversy since it was announced back in February saw protesters against Jordan B. Peterson's controversial ideas gathered to make their voices heard outside the Centre in the Square. 

Peterson came to Kitchener for the show as a stop on his promotional book tour.

Protesters carried transgender flags, displayed signs in support of the transgender community, chanted, played music and handed out pamphlets saying “hate is not welcome here” to attendees of the event. 

Aashay Dalvi, a protester in opposition to Peterson explained their reasons for protesting the event.

“The individual who is here speaking has provided visible evidence of inciting hate, discrimination and division not only in this community, but in the larger Canadian community and because of this individual, there has been an increase in queerphobia, in racism, and transphobia.” 

The event, which was sold out, saw hundreds lining up to see Peterson speak. 

Dalvi said they were left disheartened by the amount of people attending the event, but was not surprised. 

William Turman, another protester explained despite this fact, it was still important to show up and protest.

“We want to show the broader community that this is an issue that is important to us, and it does matter, and if we just ignore it, it's only going to grow.” 

Turman added if there is no pushback or opposing view on Peterson's ideas, then his rhetoric will only continue to grow. 

When asked what the overall goal of the protest was, Dalvi said to educate.

“Education and providing literature and providing evidence that shows that this individual is responsible for an immense amount of harm and we as community members, as queer members, as radicalized members of the community have had to deal with the harm that is incited by this individual.” 

A police presence was at the event, but interactions between attendees and protesters remained peaceful.