SAFETY

Every June, we honor how far the LQBTQ+ community has come, the continued activism and tenacity of the community and trailblazers who paved the way.

CNY Pride Festival is working to create a safe, open and inclusive environment for community members to celebrate who they are. The safety and security of our community and community members who participate in our events is paramount.

As required, in order to get permits for public events and street closures in the City of Syracuse, our current security plan includes the Syracuse Police Department at the perimeter of the parade and festival grounds, and a contracted security team.

While preparing for Pride celebrations, it is important to create a safety plan that works for you before attending events, parades or parties. No person should have to feel unsafe at events that are meant to create space for our communities. Though you should focus on celebrating yourself and your community, it's important to be prepared.

Be aware of your surroundings and always trust your instincts. If you feel threatened or unsafe, remove yourself from the situation as quickly and safely as possible.

Pride is about community. Look out for each other and report any suspicious person or activity to event staff or a police officer. A good adage is “if you see something, say something.” Police officers can be found at the perimeters of the events and road closures/main entrances to the Festival Grounds on W. Kirkpatrick St, or head to the Information Booth to be in contact with CNY Pride.

If possible, we recommend going to Pride events with a buddy or group. There is safety in numbers. If you can, stay with a buddy or group when on the street and leaving bars, especially at night.

Let someone who won’t be with you know your plans for the day, and keep them updated if plans change. If going to Pride alone, consider sharing your location with people.

Designate a meeting spot with your friends in case you get separated.

Charge your electronics, bring sunscreen, and stay hydrated.

Keep your friends close and your drinks closer. Never accept drugs or any drinks from strangers. Drink responsibly and don’t drink and drive. Have a designated driver. If possible, carry Narcan.

Please be aware that non-violent protesters are allowed freedom of speech on public property. Please do not engage with them (although we know it can be tempting). Law enforcement is prepared to make sure any protesters remain where they do not interfere with the celebration. Remember, someone else’s reaction to you is not a measure of your worth.

EXITS: Progress Park at the Inner Harbor is a public park accessible by public streets with many possible exit routes. The grounds are completely open on several sides. The parade Route on Solar and W. Kirkpatrick Street is completely open on all sides of the street, although it does narrow and have plants, shrubs, and some fencing creating boundaries near the bridge over the creek.

PETS: Please keep in mind that your pets may struggle in the summer heat! Sometimes the pavement is too hot for their paws and it's easy to get dehydrated. If you are going to bring your fur-baby, please keep a careful eye on them, bring extra water, and stick to the shade when possible.

We encourage folks to contact their elected officials to ask what they are doing to keep people in public spaces like parks, schools, and grocery stores safe from gun violence and white supremacists.

Read our social media statement from 2023 Pride here.

If you have additional ideas, suggestions, or information, please contact us at info@cnypride.org.