Anti-Pride protester Christopher Vanderweide, known on social media as "helmet guy," will appear in Hamilton court for a bail hearing next week.

Vanderweide is facing two counts of assault with a weapon following the violence at Hamilton Pride on June 15.

Videos have circulated online showing someone resembling Vanderweide smashing people in the face with a helmet.

Wearing an orange shirt in custody, Vanderweide waved at the camera when he appeared in court via video Friday morning.

His bail hearing is set for the full day of July 18 at 9:30 a.m. in courtroom 308.

"That's great to hear," said Vanderweide, 27. "Have a great day everyone. I love you guys."

There were five people in the room who appeared to be there to support the Kitchener man.

Supporters at court

Vanderweide was part of a group of religious extremists who went to Gage Park during a Pride celebration in June.

The group held homophobic signs and called to Pride attendees through a megaphone. Several people wearing black clothing and pink masks used a portable barrier to hide the signs, and Pride supporters joined in with signs of their own and noise makers.

Online videos show a scuffle breaking out and punches being thrown.

Police have charged four people so far following physical confrontations at Hamilton Pride on June 15. (Video Courtesy: YouTube/Facts VS. Feelings) 0:18

At court Friday, one man who identified himself only as a supporter of Vanderweide said he was there to "support what's right."



Another woman refused to speak to CBC News, calling the CBC "fake news."

The accused will be represented by lawyer Laura Giordano.