'Gone full rainbow': Canadian intelligence agency celebrates pride in online post; draws mixed reactions

The Canadian Security Intelligence Service ( CSIS ) found itself the target of online trolling following its tweet on Pride month celebrations earlier this summer.

The controversy stemmed from a tweet posted by @csiscanada that highlighted the agency’s commemoration of Pride Season, featuring performances by Two-Spirit hoop dancer Makhena Ranken Guerin, comedian Ava Val, and public servant David Da Silva.

CSIS had posted on its official social media handle: “Back in June, CSIS launched its #PrideSeason celebrations with a few guest speakers. Thanks to the talented Two-spirit hoop dancer Makhena Ranken Guerin, the hilarious Canadian comedienne Ava Val, and inspirational public servant David Da Silva...”

Back in June, CSIS launched its #PrideSeason celebrations with a few guest speakers. 🌈🎉

Thanks to the talented Two-spirit hoop dancer Makhena Ranken Guerin, the hilarious Canadian comedienne Ava Val, and inspirational public servant David Da Silva... 1/2

— CSIS Canada (@csiscanada) August 18, 2025

The post quickly sparked an outpouring of critical remarks online.

Some commentators seized on the juxtaposition of a national security agency engaging in Pride celebrations, ridiculing the blend of intelligence work with performative inclusivity.

Some social-media users mockingly reacted that CSIS had “gone full rainbow”. Others said such initiatives risked trivializing the gravity of national security concerns.

Observers noted that the intelligence agency had been increasingly active on social media platforms, engaging publicly and actively sharing cultural moments.