“Pride grew out of conflicts between LGBTQ communities and police at Compton’s Cafeteria and Stonewall Inn,” the groups said in a joint statement. “Ever since then, we have attempted to bridge that divide. That is why we are grateful to have reached a compromise solution today. It shows everyone is working in the spirit of Pride to come together!”
All first responders will march in one contingency, with command staff wearing their mandated uniforms and a small number of LGBTQ officers in uniform providing security for the contingent, according to the statement. All of these officers will be on-duty, a spokesperson for the organizations said.
All other off-duty officers in the contingency will wear casual Pride apparel representing the police department as previously allowed by parade planners.
“I appreciate how our LGBTQ police officers and public safety workers came together with the Pride Board to come up with a compromise,” Mayor London Breed said in a statement.
“The understanding and respect they showed each other is reflective of this year’s pride theme: love brings us together. Pride Month brings people from around the world to celebrate in San Francisco and I am proud of everyone involved who listened to each other this past week and focused on what unites us.”
In addition to the approved first responders’ contingency, SFPOPA said it will work with Police Chief William Scott’s office to “reinvigorate” the Chief’s LGBTQ Police Advisory Forum.