“Jun 15, 2024; Columbus, Ohio, USA; Columbus Police dialogue team members talk with Palestinian protesters who blocked the parade route for about 20 minutes during the annual Stonewall Pride March through downtown Columbus and the Short North June 15, 2024. One of the protesters read a lengthy statement and then the group moved out of the street. The theme for this year’s celebrations is “Live out Loud,” and it marks the 43rd year of Stonewall Columbus hosting citywide Pride celebrations
Doral Chenoweth, Doral Chenoweth/The Columbus Dispatch” –Columbus Dispatch
As we celebrate Pride Month under the theme “Live Out Loud,” we recognize the significance of this time for our community–the LGBTQ+/Queer community. On Saturday, a protest took place during our Pride march, aiming to bring attention to the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas that has resulted in a humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
A group of activist representing Disabled Queers for Palestine organized the protest with the message that there is no “Pride in Genocide”, and through negotiation, we were able to provide space for their message during the march. After giving space for the protestors message the march resumed without incident. We appreciate the role of the Columbus Police Department (CPD) in ensuring the safety of the protestors following the direction of the Stonewall organization, and the CPD Dialogue team in supporting Stonewall Columbus Executive Director, Densil Porteous in the negotiations.
We honor the right to peaceful assembly and the expression of diverse viewpoints, understanding that such actions are rooted in the same spirit of protest that began our movement. At Stonewall Columbus, we stand firmly against all forms of hatred, violence, and discrimination. We are committed to fostering a safe and inclusive environment for all participants.
Our priority always is the safety and security of everyone at our events–those in attendance and those who attend to protest. We have worked closely with local law enforcement, private security, and other safety organizations to ensure that all voices can be heard safely. We ask our community to always remain vigilant and respectful, especially during these times of heightened challenges in the world that demand increased awareness.
This peaceful demonstration underscores the importance of community, dialogue, and understanding in overcoming divisions and building a more inclusive, just, and peaceful world. We extend our solidarity and compassion to all those affected by the conflict, and we remain committed to advocating for a peaceful resolution.
About Stonewall Columbus: Founded in 1981, Stonewall Columbus serves Central Ohio’s LGBTQ+ community by providing a wide array of advocacy, educational, cultural, community programming and connection to resources that affirm the lives of LGBTQ+ people and their accomplices. As a community-focused organization, Stonewall Columbus is committed to fostering a climate of respect and diversity within the Central Ohio area. Stonewall Columbus, an independent 501(c)(3)nonprofit, is one of the oldest LGBTQ+ community centers in the country.
