RAINBOW POLICE CAR BRIGHTENS UP FORT LAUDERDALE PRIDE #PinkInOurLives #GAYnews

Police in the second gayest city in America have brightened up a police squad car with the colors of the rainbow in support of the community they protect.

“I don’t think there is any better way to show this is genuine public recognition by a municipality,” said five-year city resident Matt Dreger of the colorful cruiser. “This isn’t just a flag up on a pole somebody won’t see unless they are in the park or if someone points it out. I think it really shows the heart of the community.”

The city rolled out the rainbow rider in anticipation of Fort Lauderdale’s upcoming Pride Fort Lauderdale festival, February 22-24, and Wilton Manors’ Stonewall Pride Street Festival on June 15.

“It’s pride in our community and it’s diversity. It’s pride in our Police Department. We can do our job a whole lot better as long as we have a partnership with the community. That car is an illustration of that partnership,” says Police Chief Paul o’Connell.

The rainbow wrap, designed by a city employee, includes rainbows on both sides of the car and the words “Policing with Pride” on the hood and rear window. The word “Pride” in rainbow colors, appears on the vehicle’s trunk and doors. The vehicle will be used for special events.

Dreger, a member of the Stonewall parade committee, said the rainbow cruiser will also be a show stopper when it rolls down the Stonewall festival parade route in June. “I think the crowd will roar,” Dreger predicted. “Considering Stonewall started from police harassment, we have come 180 degrees in a different direction. Now police are flying our flag. What else could it do but make you happy?”

The Stonewall riots of June 28, 1969, marked the birth of an international gay rights movement, spurred on by violent confrontations between police and gay rights activists. The festive decor will come off after the June event.

If you are in the neighborhood celebrate Pride on sunny Fort Lauderdale Beach on Sunday, Feb. 24, 2019. This festival will be bigger and better than ever before—with a few surprises thrown in! Singer, choreographer and “RuPaul’s Drag Race” judge Todrick Hall will be performing on the main stage, along with “American Idol” fan favorite Ada Vox. The evening will conclude with a stunning fireworks display.

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Lesley Middleton, owner of  PINK IN OUR LIVES

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