An anticipated evening of enjoyment with friends at a well-known brewery took a somber turn when concerns of violence prompted the cancellation of the gathering.
Beers with Queers had been organized as a safe and inclusive space for members and supporters of the 2SLGBTQ+ community to socialize at Together We’re Bitter (TWB) Brewery in Kitchener on Tuesday.
Amanda Farquhar, a manager and co-owner of the brewery, disclosed that Waterloo Regional Police Service (WRPS) officers visited them on Monday.
“They had received intelligence about a potential threat from an [anti-gay] faction targeting an event in the Waterloo region with the aim of inciting violence,” Farquhar revealed.
“The police advised us that if this hate group materialized, we should secure the premises, alert 911, and they would promptly respond.”
Suzie Taka, the executive director of Spectrum, a supportive community hub for the 2SLGBTQ+ group, confirmed that the police also contacted them regarding the threat.
“An anonymous tip reached the police indicating potential targeting of local queer initiatives or gatherings… The police termed it as targeted, not a mere protest,” Taka shared, mentioning the precautionary measure of shifting Tuesday’s peer support group meetings online.
“This specific focus on targeting a particular group, mentioning intentions to attend specific queer functions, is alarming and necessitates a thoughtful response… We are reevaluating our strategies for addressing such situations.”
Law Enforcement’s Stand
In a statement to CBC News, WRPS stated that there is no active inquiry underway presently.
“Waterloo Regional Police were alerted to a possible disruption at an unspecified upcoming 2SLGBTQI+ event scheduled in Kitchener on October 21, 2025,” the statement outlined.
“The intelligence was shared with the event organizers for the day, and safety protocols were put in place.”
The police did not specify if any arrests were made, the group’s previous activities in the Waterloo area, or how they became aware of the group’s intentions for Tuesday.