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The Boston Police Department posted the following advisory on Friday regarding the planned “Straight Pride Parade” and counter-rallies:
Community Advisory: On Saturday, August 31, 2019, the Boston Police Department anticipates large crowds to gather in response to a planned event which is scheduled from 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM in Boston. Event participants will be gathering at Copley Square and marching along a planned route down Boylston Street, to Tremont Street and concluding on City Hall Plaza. The Department has been and continues to be in contact with event organizers and is working with them to ensure a safe and peaceful day.
The Department has a comprehensive operational plan in place. While details of this plan are not for public release, those in attendance at the event can expect a large police presence of both uniformed and undercover officers. The Department will be deploying fixed video cameras and mobile video support teams to assist with keeping the event safe for all who attend.
Parking in and around Copley Square, City Hall Plaza and along the parade route will be prohibited. Signs will be posted, “No Stopping Boston Police Special Event” on effected roadways.
Due to increased public safety concerns, those who plan on visiting the areas impacted by this event on Saturday August 31, 2019, are strongly urged to not bring backpacks, large bags or strollers. For those who choose to bring these items, please be advised that they may be subject to search, and there will be no storage area designated to leave these belongings.
In order to provide a safe and peaceful environment, the Boston Police Department has determined certain items to be prohibited from the Copley Square and City Hall areas as well as along the entire parade route. Please see the list of prohibited items below:
Firearms, knives, weapons, sharp objects, shields or fireworks
Pop up tents or canopies
Cans, glass containers, pre-mixed beverages or alcoholic beverages
Wagons or pull carts
Coolers
Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAV), commonly referred to as ‘drones’
Pets (excluding certified service animals)
Grills, propane tanks or open flames
Bicycles
Flag poles, bats, clubs, sticks (including signs attached to sticks)
Any athletic equipment or other item which could be used as a weapon
Security Checkpoints will be set up in and around City Hall Plaza where magnetometers will be utilized in addition to mandatory bag checks.
Traffic is expected to be impacted along the route and surrounding areas. Travelers are encouraged to leave extra time, seek alternate routes or utilize public transportation.
The Boston Police Department expects all who will be attending events to act respectfully and responsibly. The Department intends to provide a safe and peaceful opportunity for people to exercise their Constitutional rights. Violence or property damage of any kind will not be tolerated. Anyone engaging in illegal behavior is subject to arrest and prosecution to the fullest extent of the law.
