Safe swim event for LGBTQ youth in Langley distorted by social media posters

LANGLEY (NEWS 1130) – It was supposed to be an inclusive event for the LGBTQ youth community to enjoy a swim, but it’s message has been twisted around on social media.

Christine McCracken, who is part of the society that organized the All-Bodies swim, says it was meant to provide a non-judgmental space.

Instead, she says social media trolls heard about it and started spreading misinformation and lies.

“I feel it was maybe used a bit like a political platform, which for us, we’re just providing a space where youth could swim comfortably, safely and without judgement,,” says McCracken.

Those critical of the event started making claims that youth were going to be topless and that parents would be banned, but McCracken says both are not true.

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“Parent could drop off, parent could pick up, parent could ask questions,” she says. “It’s just that parents weren’t a part of the event. Just like a lot of dances that happen in communities where there are chaperones there, there’s staff there, but there just aren’t parents.”

Swimsuits are also to be worn, but participants have the option of wearing more as their comfort level allows.

The event has been postponed because they no longer feel they can offer a safe and comfortable environment for those wishing to attend.

However, they do plan on rescheduling to a later date.