As Pride Month approaches and we eagerly prepare to celebrate and recognize LGBTQ+ Pride, I want to address a matter of utmost importance: the safety and well-being of our community and that of our supporters. Recent incidents involving extremist and domestic terrorist groups targeting LGBTQ+ events have caused great unrest and concern among us all.
We recognize the significance of our Pride festival and march, which attracts over 700,000 people each year. With such a large gathering, it is imperative that we take extra precautions to ensure a secure environment where everyone can embrace their identities, express their love, and celebrate without fear.
In collaboration with federal and local law enforcement agencies, security experts, and community partners, we are implementing comprehensive safety measures to mitigate potential risks and maintain a welcoming and secure space for all attendees. Some of the public measures include:
- Enhanced Security Presence: We will have a heightened security presence throughout the festival and march, including uniformed law enforcement officers, private security personnel, and trained volunteers. They will be strategically positioned to monitor the event, respond to any incidents, and ensure the safety of our community.
- Vigilant Threat Assessment: We are working closely with law enforcement agencies to assess potential threats and intelligence, staying informed of any extremist or terrorist activities that may pose a risk to our community. We will remain vigilant and adapt our security measures accordingly to address emerging concerns.
- Collaborative Partnerships: We are engaging with local, state, and federal agencies, as well as LGBTQ+ organizations, community leaders, and advocacy groups, to foster collaborative partnerships aimed at enhancing safety, intelligence sharing, and response capabilities.
Please know that we do not take your safety lightly, and we are continuously evaluating and improving our security protocols to adapt to evolving challenges. We encourage everyone attending Pride events to remain vigilant, report any suspicious activity to authorities or event staff, and prioritize their own personal safety.
Our community is a resilient community and in this moment we must be a united community not allowing fear or hatred to dampen our spirit and celebration of LGBTQ+ Pride. Together, we must stand strong, embracing our diversity, advocating for equality, and celebrating love in all its forms.
Thank you for your continued support, trust, and resilience. We look forward to coming together as a community to celebrate Pride and create lasting memories that reflect the strength and resilience of the LGBTQ+ community.
With Pride,
Densil Porteous
Executive Director
Stonewall Columbus
