Toronto mayor Rob Ford attends his first Pride event

Rob Ford finally came out on Monday ... to his first ever Pride Week event as mayor of Toronto.

Those attending the opening flag-raising, which takes place outside of City Hall, began tweeting pictures and comments about the mayor's decision to step out unannounced and read a declaration about the festivities.

Ford has been criticized in past years for refusing to attend the Pride Parade, saying he always spends Canada Day weekend at the cottage with his family. He recently told KISS 92.5 he would miss the parade again this year if it fell on the long weekend, but he surprised attendees by making an appearance at the flag-raising.

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"Toronto's strong and vibrant LGBT community contributes greatly to our city's cultural fabric," Ford said, reading from the declaration.

"In a world often marred by clashes between people who see differences as a reason for conflict, Pride Week is a time to celebrate diversity, inclusiveness and understanding."

Premier Kathleen Wynne also attended the opening Pride event. The Toronto Sun's City Hall Bureau Chief, Don Peat, tweeted her response to Ford's support.

Rob Ford's brother, councillor Doug Ford, said in March the mayor would attend the flag raising, according to the Toronto Star. But the mayor didn't confirm his attendance until he stepped out to the podium.

Some of Rob Ford's less friendly comments about the GLBT community have caused a jaw or two to drop to the floor in the past.

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For example, during a 2005 debate about funding programs for transgendered and transsexual residents, he said:

The following year, he opposed AIDS-prevention grants, saying:

A protester at the flag raising carried a sign that told Ford to "grow up" and be mayor of all Toronto residents.

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