Pride Toronto Loses Major Sponsors In Wake Of DEI Controversy As Google, Home Depot Exit

Pride Toronto has lost two more major sponsors, Google and Home Depot, weeks before the annual event. Organisers say the decision reflects growing corporate retreat from DEI initiatives, influenced by political pressures in the United States.

The companies communicated their withdrawal via brief emails, according to Executive Director Kojo Modeste. This follows earlier exits by Nissan, Adidas, and Clorox. Modeste warned the funding gap could affect future editions of the festival, which draws around 3 million attendees each year. While some local trade unions have stepped in to assist, concerns remain about long-term sustainability. Experts note that other pride events in cities like New York and Philadelphia have also faced similar sponsor losses, indicating a broader shift in corporate support.