New LGBTQ+ Pride Badge An Option For Officers: Tampa Police

TAMPA, FL — The Tampa Police Department introduced a new commemorative badge for LGBTQ+ Pride month, celebrated each year in June, according to a video shared by the agency.

It serves “as a symbol of our department’s commitment to serving members of the LGBTQ+ community with understanding,” an officer said in the video. “By fostering open communication we can make sure that everyone feels comfortable reaching out to police whenever they need help.”

The badge incorporates the Progress Pride flag, which was created in 2018, into its design. It includes the original rainbow flag, as well as the added five-color chevron that represents people of color and the transgender community.

“This badge can be a conversation starter, a way to show that we are allies and a symbol of safety for those who might be hesitant to interact with the police,” the officer said.

The badge is one of nine that members of the department can choose to collect or wear in June.