The Trump administration's decision to close Dupont Circle Park during WorldPride in Washington, D.C., has sparked backlash from local officials and the LGBTQ+ community. Despite the Metropolitan Police Department's prior commitment to keep the area safe, federal entities, including the National Park Service, went ahead with the closure citing security risks. This decision has been met with disappointment, especially as Dupont Circle is a significant symbol of LGBTQ+ history. Local leaders have expressed frustration over the move, which detracts from the celebration of Pride.
I am extremely disappointed and frustrated that Dupont Circle Park will be closed this weekend despite MPD's commitment to keep folks safe there. This closure is disheartening to me and so many in our community who wanted to celebrate World Pride at this iconic symbol of our city's historic LGBTQ+ community.
According to a June 4 Record of Determination obtained by The Washington Post, the National Park Service said that the closure was necessary 'to secure the park, deter potential violence, reduce the risk of destructive acts and decrease the need for extensive law enforcement presence.'
Despite MPD's reversal, the U.S. Park Police doubled down, indicating that 'the threat of violence, criminal acts, and NPS resource destruction has only increased since MPD's withdrawal'.
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