Chicago police and city officials put a heavy emphasis on public safety Friday as they outlined plans for the 55th annual Chicago Pride Parade stepping off on Sunday.
Officials said the Chicago Police Department, the Office of Emergency Management and Communications, and parade organizers worked for months to ensure the parade through Lake View and Lincoln Park stays a safe and welcoming environment.
“We are ready to secure the parade route and safeguard the community area before, during and after the parade,” said CPD Chief Angel Novalez. “We will maintain a visible presence to ensure everyone is able to safely enjoy this parade that honors the strength and diversity of our LGBTQ+ community.”
Officials acknowledged that over the years the largest safety concerns occur once the official parade ends, often leading to spontaneous gatherings that could lead to disorder or violence.
“We know that nighttime activity in the area following the parade can turn into disorderly and potentially violent situations,” Novalez said. “Violence, vandalism or criminal activity will not be tolerated.”
Novalez did not reveal any specific operation details, but he did share that CPD reviewed after-action reports from previous years to identify gaps in its response plans. The department has since added supervisory personnel to respond more quickly if multiple incidents occur.
Center on Halsted CEO Jolie Robinson said the emphasis on security this year comes as LGBTQ+ communities have faced heightened threats across the country.
“We know that there is a national climate of folks being targeted because they are a part of the LGBTQ+ community,” Robinson said. “We’ve seen language directed toward our transgender community that is troubling and harmful, and so not only is this an important day of celebration … but also it’s about how we ensure that everybody that’s coming out in celebration of this beautiful day is and can be safe.”
Ald. Bennett Lawson (44th) said the event remains an important symbol of inclusion at a time when LGBTQ+ communities continue to face challenges across the country.
“With continued attacks on the community all across the country, the Pride Parade sends a strong message that Chicago is a safe and welcoming space for everyone,” he said.
Lawson said in addition to the police department’s safety efforts, the parade route has been shortened and the number of entries has been reduced in order to aid public safety.
Ahead of temperatures rising this weekend, officials also encouraged attendees to drink water and cool off when necessary. The parade will also include cooling stations for attendees if needed, along with trucks to provide workers with water and snacks. The parade will begin at 11 a.m on Sunday and will conclude at 2 p.m.