Seattle Police Chief, Adrian Diaz, expressed his disappointment that officers will not be able to march in the annual Pride Parade while wearing their uniforms, Your Content has learned.
Despite this setback, officers will still be present during the 49th annual parade to ensure security and safety.
Chief Diaz acknowledged the significant number of LGBTQ+ individuals within the police department and emphasized the importance of allowing them to embrace their identities while serving the community.
Chief Diaz highlighted the Seattle Police Department’s notable inclusion of transgender officers, making it one of the most transgender-inclusive departments nationwide.
He emphasized the need for officers to feel valued and respected by their own community, emphasizing the challenges faced when this is not the case.
This marks the second consecutive year that officers are prohibited from marching in uniform at the Seattle Pride Parade.
The decision was made based on feedback from a community survey and the historical distrust of law enforcement within the queer community, stemming from the criminalization of LGBTQIA+ individuals and instances of police violence against marginalized groups.
The Pride movement originated from the Stonewall rebellion, which is why Pride Parades across the country are held on the last Sunday in June.
While Chief Diaz understands the reasoning behind the decision, he also wishes to highlight the progress made, such as the establishment of the LGBTQ Advisory Council.
This council collaborates with the police department to enhance safety for the LGBTQ community.
Despite the uniform restriction, Seattle officers will still be actively present along the parade route, fulfilling their duty to provide security.
The 49th annual Pride Parade will take place on Sunday, June 25, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., commencing at Westlake Park and proceeding through downtown Seattle along Fourth Avenue, between Pike Street and Denny Way, according to NBC5.