Steinbach Pride is organizing its first march, to be held Saturday, July 9th. The event begins at 11am at Steinbach United Church, ending at City Hall, where organizers say community leaders will speak.

One politician that has said he will not take part, is Provencher Member of Parliament Ted Falk. In a written statement, Falk announced the following on Monday:

(Provencher MP Ted Falk)"I will not be attending the Pride march taking place in Steinbach on July 9, nor do I intend to participate in any other events organized by this group. Just as I respect the right of people to participate in this event, I am hopeful the event organizers will be respectful of my choice, and the choice of many others, not to participate.

Even without a scheduling conflict, my decision to not attend would be the same.

I've been clear on this issue many times, and have made my position public on my values of faith, family and community.

I would expect that the organizers of any public event would be respectful and not create division in our community over any person's individual choice whether or not to participate in their particular event."

Following the rally at City Hall, marchers will head back to the United Church. Organizers say all are welcome to walk in solidarity in the Pride March for Equality.