This weekend’s Pride March and other Pride-related events throughout New York City could be targets for violence, the New York Police Department’s Intel Bureau warned.
“LGBTQIA+ community remains a high priority target for violent extremists and malicious actors across the ideological spectrum, necessitating elevated vigilance during the Pride March and the other Pride-related events across New York City,” according to the NYPD.
In this June 25, 2023, file photo, New York City Police Department officers, standing behind a bicycle rack barricade and in front of 3 large NYPD Mobile Command Post vehicles, monitor the NYC Pride March 2023, near Christopher Street in New York.
UIG via Getty Images, FILE
People gather outside of the Stonewall Inn as President Joe Biden’s motorcade passes by during his visit to the historic LGBTQIA+ bar to mark the 55th anniversary of the riots, on June 28, 2024, in New York.
Spencer Platt/Getty Images
Racially or ethnically motivated violent extremists (REMVEs), homegrown violent extremists (HVEs), and ideologically unaffiliated malicious actors harboring anti-LGBTQIA+ grievances may view these widely publicized, heavily attended, and symbolic events as an opportunity to carry out an attack,” according to the NYPD.
The Pride March is set to kick off Sunday at 12 p.m. on 25th Street and Fifth Avenue. It will then proceed south on Fifth Avenue before heading west on Eight Street, crossing over to Sixth Avenue.
In this June 25, 2023, file photo, a large crowd watches the NYC Pride March 2023 on 5th Avenue, near 24th Street, in the Flatiron district of New York.
UIG via Getty Images, FILE
The march will then continue on Christopher Street, then turn north on Seventh Avenue, ending in Chelsea at 16th Street and Seventh Avenue.
The NYPD noted there have been numerous acts of violence against members of the LGBTQIA+ community this year and in previous years.
The New York City Police Department (NYPD) has issued a warning about potential violence targeting the upcoming Pride march and related events in the city. The annual Pride march, which celebrates the LGBTQ+ community, is scheduled to take place in June, but concerns have been raised about potential threats to the safety of participants.
According to the NYPD, there have been credible threats of violence against the Pride march and related events, including possible attacks by extremist groups or individuals. The department is taking these threats seriously and is working to ensure the safety and security of all participants.
In response to the threats, the NYPD has increased security measures for the Pride march and related events. This includes deploying additional officers, implementing security checkpoints, and conducting thorough background checks on all participants. The department is also working closely with federal and state law enforcement agencies to monitor any potential threats and respond quickly to any incidents.
The NYPD is urging all participants in the Pride march and related events to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to law enforcement. They are also advising attendees to follow all security protocols and cooperate with law enforcement officers to ensure a safe and peaceful event.
In a statement, NYPD Commissioner Dermot Shea said, “The safety and security of all New Yorkers, especially those participating in the Pride march, is our top priority. We are taking these threats seriously and are working diligently to prevent any potential violence. We urge all participants to be vigilant and report any suspicious activity to law enforcement.”
The Pride march is a celebration of love, acceptance, and equality, and it is important that all participants feel safe and secure while attending. The NYPD is committed to ensuring that the event is a peaceful and joyous occasion for all involved.
In light of the recent threats, it is more important than ever for the LGBTQ+ community and their allies to come together in solidarity and support each other. By standing together and speaking out against hate and violence, we can send a powerful message of love and acceptance to the world.
As we prepare for the upcoming Pride march and related events, let us remember the importance of unity, resilience, and standing up for what is right. Together, we can overcome any challenges and continue to fight for equality and justice for all.
