Chicago’s ABC News affiliate reports:
The City of Aurora has revoked a special permit for the 2022 Aurora Pride Parade due to security staffing concerns. The city claims organizers failed to retain the number of law enforcement officers for the parade.
Since it’s a private event, the city said officers have to volunteer their time to work security. Last month, parade organizers sparked controversy when they announced they would not allow police officers to march in the parade in full uniform or bring police vehicles.
From the event organizers:
As you are likely aware, the Aurora Police Department has said it cannot supply enough sworn officers to provide Parade security, and has tasked us with finding officers from other jurisdictions to close the gap.
We were notified that we had until 12PM today to do so, or our Special Events permit would be revoked at that time. We have not been able to close the gap, despite the tireless efforts of our Safety team lead and many supporters offering their assistance. As a result, our permit is now revoked.
However, we’re not giving up. Our position has been misrepresented, and we’re making every effort to keep the parade as scheduled. Thank you for your steadfast support, and please hang tight
Aurora, population 200,000, is usually host to the state’s second-largest Pride parade.
Aurora Police today said they “cannot recommend” that the city holds its pride parade as planned this Sunday, claiming they can’t find the 20 officers needed to staff it. GOP gov primary candidate, Aurora Mayor Richard Irvin, has already said he won’t attend. https://t.co/P5bANTgpf6
— TinaSfon (@TinaSfon) June 7, 2022
Permit revoked for Aurora Pride Parade after police department says too few officers were secured to maintain safety https://t.co/DoyEmyQQIO pic.twitter.com/pxNMX2GuUL
— CBS Chicago (@cbschicago) June 8, 2022
Organizers of the 2022 Aurora Pride Parade said their special events permit has been revoked due to police staffing issues. https://t.co/nHmMMEohVH
— ABC 7 Chicago (@ABC7Chicago) June 8, 2022