Reports of a potential gunman at the Washington D.C. pride parade last weekend, but organizers of Denver Pride urge people not to worry about a similar situation happening here.
People attending the capital’s parade began to flee after hearing sounds resembling gunshots, and one man was arrested by police after being found in possession of a gun. No one was shot, but a number of parade-goers were injured in the chaos.
“We have a very active and engaged committee thatap worked really hard on a safety plan for Denver Pride,” said Rex Fuller, a spokesperson for The Center on Colfax, which organizes the event.
The Denver Police Department referred questions about Pride security to the festival organizers.
Denver’s Pride will have a triple layer of security, Fuller said. A volunteer safety team monitors the festival, along with a private security team, and officers from the Denver Police Department will be at the festival and along the parade route.
Weapons are not allowed inside the festival area, and bags are checked at the entrance.
While the center is always concerned about other incidents that take place, Fuller said he feels confident that Denver Pride will be safe. Historically Denver Pride has been peaceful, and Denver police officers have said they enjoy working the event because of its low-stress nature.
“We should have a really good time,” Fuller said.
