OKC, NWA to increase security at 2016 Pride events

by Sara Ritsch
Staff Writer

In the wake of the Orlando shooting on June 12, the nation’s proud LGBT community may have natural skepticism about the safety of attending Pride events in 2016. But the Northwest Arkansas Pride and Oklahoma City Pride teams are here to reassure us that there will indeed be an increase in security.

“We are working with local authorities, the City of Fayetteville law enforcement and the venues hosting the events,” says Susan Hartman, staff person at Northwest Arkansas (NWA) Center for Equality. “The official word is that we are taking the necessary steps to make sure appropriate security is at the events.”

Oklahoma City (OKC) Pride Director Michael Clark sent out a similar message today on Facebook. “Please join us for OKC Pride 2016 to show Oklahoma and the world that we will not cave to hatred and are proud of who we are. We will have private security on site and are partnering with the Oklahoma Police Department and Oklahoma County Sheriff's Office to ensure a safe and secure event for everyone,” he wrote.

Both organizations ensure that the LGBT community will remain strong. “...[this] only solidifies the need to come together in celebration of Pride and remembrance of both how far we have come and how far we have left to go,” Clark continued in his message.

“Pride was born of a need to stand up against oppression, discrimination and to fight for equality. The LGBTQ community has a long history of enduring assaults and we come together today to make it clear that we will continue to move forward in our battle for equality. No individual, organization or attack will drive us back into the shadows.”

NWA’s Hartman brings up an enticing point. “Our mantra today is ‘see something, say something.’ That has been our reality since 9/11,” she says.

“We always want to say we don’t think anything is going to happen, but one thing this told us is you never know. We don’t know. There is nothing that has taken place that gives us reason to believe that our safety has been compromised. But at same time you always have to be observant and aware. Since 9/11, isn’t that the way we’ve had to start thinking? Move forward with life as is, but at the same time be aware and observant. It’s the new normal.”

So this year, if you see something, say something. But LGBT Pride is never-ending and incredibly strong, so like Clark said, “In the month when we celebrate Pride, recognize our diversity and honor those who fought for our rights, this tragedy exemplifies our need for continued vigilance in the struggle for true equality. No one should have to fear for their safety or basic human rights just because of who they are or who they love.”

OKC Pride weekend kicks off on Friday, June 24 with a free Block Party and Concert on NW 39th Street featuring the world premiere of the “First Ladies of Disco” show. An Arts Festival will be throughout the weekend and the OKC Pride Parade will be at 6 p.m. on Sunday, June 26.

Northwest Arkansas celebrates Pride in a big way this year, from June 16 to June 19 in both Bentonville and Fayetteville. The Pride Parade and Festival will both be held on Saturday, June 18. June 19 has the Interfaith Fellowship Gathering at Spirit of Peace for some wholesome family fun.

For more information, visit their websites at www.nwaequality.org/nwapride and www.okcpride.org.

The Gayly - 6/14/2016 @ 12:20 p.m. CDT