Indy Pride will once again host a variety of events to celebrate the LGBTQ+ community of Central Indiana and we could not be more excited! With more than 22 events on the calendar for May and June, there is something for everyone including Deaf Pride, Girl Pride, #Transglam, Latinx Pride, Pet Pride, and many more.
In addition to the over 20 events throughout the month of May and June for the Indianapolis community, the Indy Pride Festival 2022 presented by Salesforce, will serve as Indy Pride’s first in-person Festival in two years. As the event approaches, we are working closely with IMPD representatives to cultivate a relationship that is empathetic to the needs of Indianapolis’ queer community and rooted in respect. IMPD will continue to handle all city and Homeland Security required responsibilities including traffic controls and pedestrian safety. A special First Responders unit will march in the parade which will include LGBTQ+ police officers, firefighters, and emergency response personnel.
Attendees at 2022 Pride Festival events will notice an immediate change in IMPD presence with the use of “soft uniforms” featuring branded T-shirts and shorts versus traditional police uniforms and an increase in bicycle officers positioned throughout the event. Also, Indy Pride will continue its use of private security to manage public safety during festival attendees. “Indy Pride continues to explore alternative safety and security measures for the Festival, ” said Indy Pride Board Chair, Jenny Boyts. “This year we are pleased to announce the introduction of our mobile crisis teams who will be available to address and support non-violent incidents with mental and behavioral health professionals. This will provide us with the critical resources necessary to assess, de-escalate, and offer support as needed,” she added.
We are thrilled about the opportunity of hosting our Pride Celebration in-person. The effect of Covid-19 coupled with the numerous social justice issues we’ve experienced over the past two years has impacted the queer community immensely. Our board of directors and volunteers have been working tirelessly with city leadership and stakeholders since the decision was made to return in-person. We’ve expanded the calendar of events to create a festival that is more inclusive and creates a safe place for people to gather. We invite everyone to attend our events and celebrate all that Indy Pride and the Indy Pride Festival has to offer.
