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New York Pride Parade Rejects Armed LGBTQ Officers; Police Chief 'Shocked'

New York Pride Parade Rejects Armed LGBTQ Officers; Police Chief 'Shocked'

The New York Police Department's LGBTQ officer group (GOAL) was refused participation in the Pride parade while in uniform due to rules against firearms, which the organizers argued could create a sense of insecurity for the LGBTQ community. Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch condemned the decision as contrary to the event's inclusive spirit.

During the New York City Pride parade held in Manhattan, GOAL was unable to participate. Tisch criticized the organizers for their hypocrisy, stating that police officers are allowed to wear uniforms while on duty alongside the parade route, yet cannot participate with their own message during the march.

The organizing body, Heritage of Pride, emphasized that the rule against weapons is in place to ensure the safety of community members participating in the shared space. This year marks the fourth consecutive time that LGBTQ officers have been denied participation due to weapon restrictions.

Tisch expressed her belief that all participants should be visible, including those who are LGBTQ officers, and led a protest in the audience area during the parade.