Carrol and Kenyatta denounce over policing at Pride celebration
Rep. Andre D. Carroll June 11, 2026 | 3:59 PM
After 15 people were arrested during last week’s Philly Pride celebration, state Reps. Andre Carroll and Malcolm Kenyatta released the following statement:
“This weekend, reports from our Pride celebration raised serious concerns about over-policing, the use of force, and disrespectful treatment directed toward members of the LGBTQ community.
“Pride should be a time of joy, affirmation, and community -- not a time when people feel targeted, intimidated, or unsafe. We must acknowledge the experiences shared by attendees and take these concerns seriously.
“The LGBTQ rights movement is deeply connected to the fight against police brutality and discrimination. The Stonewall uprising was born from resistance to harassment and mistreatment, and that history remains a powerful reminder of why so many in our community continue to demand dignity, fairness, and accountability.
“We cannot celebrate Pride while ignoring the lessons that gave rise to it.
“As state representatives, we are committed to working with LGBTQ community leaders, event organizers, public safety officials, and our colleagues in government to identify what occurred and develop tangible solutions that prevent outcomes like this from happening again. Together, we can strengthen accountability, improve training and community engagement, and ensure that future Pride celebrations are safe, welcoming, and respectful for everyone.”