GOAL said it was “disheartened” by the news of the police ban. GOAL typically marches in an effort to bridge relations between law enforcement and LGBT folks. The Gay Officers Action League (GOAL), which prides itself on its work to enact “police reform and policy revision touching on the LGBTQIA+ community in New York City,” will not be allowed to attend the parade to show its support. Supporters reacted enthusiastically to the May announcement, saying cops “should not be here,” a sentiment that contradicts the Pride movement’s purported pushes for inclusivity.Īlong with taking steps to lessen police presence for security, NYC Pride banned any LGBT officers from participating in events while in uniform. “NYPD will provide first response and security only when absolutely necessary as mandated by city officials,” the group said, citing undefined “excessive force” and “violence against marginalized groups” as a reason for the ban. Although NYC Pride has no legal authority to prohibit officers from performing law enforcement duties, the group is attempting to minimize NYPD’s presence by replacing the department’s officers with private security and community volunteers. NYC Pride issued a statement in May that it will “take steps to keep police officers at least one city block away from event perimeter areas where possible.