Tensions High at Orlando Vigil as Trans Activist Is Arrested in Montreal

Montreal's Parc de l’Espoir held a beautiful vigil on Thursday, with thousands of attendees paying tribute to the victims of Orlando's mass shooting.

Among the speakers in attendance at the vigil was well-known trans activist Esteban Torres, 20, who had delivered an address at the request of organizers. Also present were federal minister Mélanie Joly, Coalition Avenir Québec leader François Legault, and Québec Premier Philippe Couillard.

After the tribute speeches, Torres approached Couillard amongst the crowds, and shouted “Revolution” and “We will take back the street” in his face. Some witnesses report that Torres tried to slap the Canadian politician and throw a piece of paper in his face.

Police immediately apprehended Torres and pulled the prime minister away.

The moment was the only drawback to a peaceful vigil that drew an estimated 3,000 people under the pink canopy, a landmark of the Montreal gay village:

 

Vigil in the Village in remembrance of the victims of Orlando #weareorlando #montreal

A photo posted by Lynn Habel (@lynnhabel) on Jun 16, 2016 at 4:18pm PDT

Couillard's press aide reports that the premier was not harmed in the outburst, and it is unclear whether charges will be brought against Torres.

Vigils are set to continue in cities across US and the world this weekend.
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