An Open Letter from Sonoma County Pride
| Dear Community Members, Sonoma County Pride (SCP) would like to address concerns raised in a circulating petition regarding violence and discrimination faced by Black, Brown, and Indigenous individuals at the hands of law enforcement. We appreciate the valid concerns expressed about the inclusion of Law Enforcement Departments at our Pride Parade and Festival. At SCP, we prioritize the safety, well-being, and inclusion of all LGBTQ+ community members. We honor the legacy of Stonewall and Marsha P. Johnson, a trans woman of color who led the 1969 riots against police harassment and brutality. It is crucial to continue uplifting their courage while recognizing the ongoing struggle for justice and equality. In response to the petition calling for the exclusion of law enforcement from our events, we want to emphasize that we are actively listening to our community. Through open dialogue, education, and collaboration, we aim to create Pride events that are safe, inclusive, and empowering for all. SCP has engaged in workshops and valuable conversations addressing this issue, including at the 2021 Consolidated Association of Pride, Inc. (CAPI) conference, and with other Pride committees and community members. Leading up to our 2024 Parade and Festival, SCP engaged in meaningful discussions with community members, advocacy groups, and individuals, including petition signers. We have also been engaging with law enforcement and community leaders about their role in Pride events. SCP initiated conversations with law enforcement prior to the Parade / Festival to address community concerns and explore potential changes to their presence at our events. Since 2018, SCP has experienced a positive relationship with the Santa Rosa Police Department, working collaboratively to promote a safe and inclusive environment at our events. We believe that improvements come from respectful discourse, collaboration, and commitment. We will hold community meetings before and after the 2025 Pride event to discuss topics such as police presence, diversity, and equity, and to plan for the involvement of Law Enforcement in our future Pride events. Historically, SCP has donated a minimum of 25% of our net proceeds each year to local nonprofits supporting the LGBTQI+ community, totaling over $19,000 last year. This year, we are allocating these funds towards hosting community conversations, in order to cover costs for rental spaces, mediators, trainers, workshops, scholarships, and related activities. We are developing guidelines to address the concerns raised about police presence at our events. Our goal is to create safe spaces for all LGBTQ+ community members, particularly those historically marginalized and disproportionately targeted by systemic violence and discrimination. We will keep you informed about developments and planned activities, and we encourage you to continue sharing your thoughts, ideas, and experiences with us as we work towards a more inclusive and uplifting Pride celebration. Thank you for your continued support and for being a vital part of the Sonoma County Pride community. With love and solidarity, The Board of Directors Sonoma County Pride Sonoma County Pride is an all-volunteer organization dedicated to promoting equality for all. Our mission is to support the non-profit community and educate about the rich LGBTQ+ history of Sonoma County. |