NYC Pride 2022: New Safety Measures As Fully In-Person Events Return

NEW YORK CITY — NYC Pride is almost here — and it'll have a fresh look.

The iconic celebration largely centered in the West Village will return to fully in-person events starting June 15 through June 26 after two years of mostly virtual coronavirus pandemic happenings.

But the traditional joyous revelry will come with some new safety precautions, which were released Monday by organizers.

"While we are pleased to return to a fully in-person format for 2022, we are learning to live in an environment with recurring spikes in COVID-19 case numbers," the guidelines state. "NYC Pride is committed to bringing the community together in person with basic safety precautions in place to ensure we can celebrate Pride with the lowest possible risk."

Read the full list of COVID-19 precautions and requirements by event, including the June 26 Pride March, here.

The COVID-19 precautions — which range from optional-yet-strongly-encouraged mask wearing to proof of vaccinations or negative tests for certain events — aren't the only significant safety change.

Uniformed law enforcement officers such as the NYPD could be few and far between.

NYC Pride organizers banned corrections and law enforcement exhibitors from marching in uniforms and participating in recruitment activities until at least 2025. The controversial decision was made in the wake of massive social justice protests focused on police brutality after the murder of George Floyd.

"This action was a step in the path of transformative justice affirming our commitment to eliminating violence, harm and abuse at NYC Pride events," organizers wrote in a statement.

Private security will handle much of safety issues, according to the new guidelines. And all security and volunteer personnel will be required to undergo active shooter and de-escalation training, including alcohol involvement, sexual harassment, consent for attendees and performers, racially based altercations, among others.

Attendees themselves are encouraged to avoid going to events themselves, when possible, according to the guidelines.

"Designate a 'Pride Buddy,' and do not leave your friends alone," the guidelines state.

Other steps, as outlined by NYC Pride are

• Consider your power and privilege; consider ways you can be helpful to others around you
• If you witness or experience an act of violence call the NYC Anti Violence hotline at (212) 714-1141.
• If you identify a potential threat, including discrimination, violence, hate, or even an unattended bag, call 911 immediately.

Read all the new policies, including those for accessibility and sustainability, here.