Photo: Joe Raedle / Getty Images News / Getty Images
(Wilton Manors, FL) - Fifty-thousand people are expected to attend the 25th annual Wilton Manors Stonewall Pride block party Saturday.
Festival president Jameer Baptiste says keeping everyone safe is paramount and expensive.
He says this year, because of today's climate, there is a reduced number of sponsors and security costs six figures.
He says metal detectors will be used for the first time and vehicle wheels will be clamped to prevent them from being driven or rolled into the crowd.
Wilton Manors police will be patrolling the event and officers are asking anyone who sees something, to say something.
"Please text “Stonewall” to 888777. Call (954)390-2150 or download the SaferWatch App to report suspicious activity. If you see something, say something!"
This Stonewall Pride festival commemorates the 1969 Stonewall riots in New York City and Baptiste says for its 25th anniversary on Saturday the celebration has taken on a renewed meaning.
According to Baptiste, "Stonewall Pride celebrates the historic Stonewall Riots and the start of the LGBTQ+ human rights movement and how it has shaped our community."
Baptiste says this year the party will be enlivened with the Glow Night Parade that starts at 8pm. "The Stonewall Pride Parade is going BRIGHT! We're lighting up the night with a stream of illuminated Pride Floats, Vehicles and Walking Groups."
Tickets for the Stonewall Pride block party are available here.