Bomb threat prompted more visible police presence at Edmonton Pride parade
EPS said there weren't more officers than normal at Edmonton's Pride parade but as a precaution, police adopted a more visible presence due to the bomb threat.
A bomb threat prompted an increased police presence at Edmonton Pride Festival parade, sparking criticism from some 2SLGBTQ+ members. Edmonton Police Service deputy chief Nicole Chapdelaine stated the threat was deemed non-credible by the hate crime unit, but acknowledged the fear and concern it caused. Edmonton Pride organizers had announced plans for additional security after incidents at similar events in Vancouver and Berlin.
Despite concerns over the communication of the decision, festival executive producer Trevor Watson apologized for leaving attendees questioning their safety. The police presence reflects a complex relationship between law enforcement and LGBTQ communities, which has been influenced by historical events like the 1981 Pisces Bathhouse Raid in Edmonton.
The city's Police Service has since apologized for the raid and is planning a mediation forum with local LGBTQ organizations to address such issues in the future.
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