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27

SAFETY

Hosting an uplifting celebration for the LGBTQ+ community and allies where people can feel safe is our primary goal.  The recent State Department alert regarding potential threats at international Pride festivals is an important reminder that LGBTQ+ people must always be vigilant. We want to reassure everyone that the safety and well-being of all participants in the BP4TP Parade,  Festival, and Block Party activities are of highest priority to the organizing committee.

 

Throughout our community’s history, nonviolent protest has been a foundation of advancing LGBTQ+ equality. Basic civil rights, HIV/AIDS, hate crimes, marriage equality, transgender rights - queer people have walked the path of nonviolent protest that has made and continues to make the United States a better place for all of us. We welcome all voices into Pride festivities, in many forms of nonviolent protest, including as marchers in the parade. All we ask is that everyone uphold the values by which Boston Pride for the People operates. (Please see below.)

We strongly believe in the fundamental right to free speech. However, please be mindful of language (spoken or written) and actions that have the potential to  cause others to feel unsafe. There is no space for hate speech directed at any community. We condemn anti-LGBTQ+ language, signs, or actions. We do not condone language that expresses racist, transphobic, anti-Semitic, anti-Muslim, or any other sentiment that disparages a community. We embrace and treasure the diversity of queer people.

 

​Boston Pride For The People has been working closely with safety professionals and we have a safety plan in place for responding to various potential situations. We established a relationship with the LGBTQ+ liaisons at the Boston Police Department (BPD) last year, which continues and allows communication and sharing of information about potential safety challenges. Organizing committee members have been attending LGBTQ-related security briefings on the city, state, and federal level.  Boston Police Department, Emergency Medical Services, and other safety staff, will be providing security and any necessary assistance throughout the event. 

BP4TP also has integrated security controls during the planning process, some of which include: 

  • sustaining ongoing conversation with local, state, and federal authorities

  • implementing mandatory Contingent Leader Trainings for all groups marching in the parade (over 400 people trained this year)

  • conducting orientation for hundreds of volunteers who act as eyes and ears during the festivities

  • contracting with paid security for the 21+ Block Festival

 

As with any public event, be aware of your surroundings at all times.  The safety of all is our top priority.

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