PCC disavows “Come Out in Bryan” event sponsored by I Heart Bryan

Pride Community Center, Inc
PO Box 9706
College Station, Texas 77842
info@pridecc.org
www.pridecc.org

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 4, 2021
Contact: Information Below
View PDF Copy of Release

Recently, Pride Community Center (PCC) and a host of other local LGBTQ+ organizations were asked for wisdom and input regarding a celebratory event in downtown Bryan during First Friday. All LGBTQ+ groups present raised concern over police involvement in any events. The organizers that sought out our guidance decided to proceed despite the concerns raised and removed LGBTQ+ organizations from the planning process. We are concerned as an organization with the breakdown of communication and lack of involvement of the community that the event was intended to serve

PCC honors the conflicts that gave rise to the LGBTQ+ civil rights movement at both Compton’s Cafeteria (1966) and the Stonewall Uprising (1969) that involved queer and trans people of color being harassed, incarcerated, and abused by law enforcement. We as a society need to listen to voices, such as those from our queer and trans people of color (QTPOC), that have gone unheard for so long. QTPOC remain some of the most marginalized within our community and the most impacted by the discrimination, harassment, and violence that continues today. PCC stands for honoring Pride through having the difficult conversation of law enforcement involvement in Pride activities.

Pride Community Center does not endorse the “Come Out in Bryan” event sponsored by I Heart Bryan at First Friday on June 4, 2021. We look forward to future conversations in our community, with I Heart Bryan, and others in regard to the history and the concerns involved with police presence at Pride events. Pride Community Center, Inc. is committed to justice, respect, inclusion, and safety. Moving forward, collaboration is essential for the betterment of our community.

In solidarity,
Pride Community Center, Inc.

Pride Community Center, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) organization committed to building community, providing support, and raising awareness in the Brazos Valley. For more information on Pride Community Center, please visit pridecc.org.