San Francisco prepares for heightened security during 2017 Pride Parade

Byby Cornell Barnard KGO logo
Thursday, March 2, 2017
San Francisco prepares for heightened security during 2017 Pride Parade
San Francisco Pride is kicking off today with festivals, marches and with lots of security measures in place. Saturday, thousands spilled into Delores Park hours before the annual Dyke March began.

SAN FRANCISCO (KGO) -- San Francisco Pride is kicking off today with festivals, marches and with lots of security measures in place.

Saturday, thousands spilled into Delores Park hours before the annual Dyke March began.

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Around the same time, the Pride Festival was taking place at the Civic Center.

This is the second year of increased security screenings at Civic Center with metal detectors and bag checks. Large bags, glass containers, and alcohol were not allowed in.

"It's a little much with the metal detectors but I can see what's happening in Orlando and Manchester, all scary stuff," said Therese Gallegos, a Pride Attendee.

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Pride's Executive Director George Ridgeley says this year could break attendance records. "We're expecting 1 million people this year, and there's a larger interest in the parade," said Ridgeley.

A protest against the Trump Administration will lead off Sunday's Pride parade.

Bay Area Activist, Alex Morrison is this year', Grand Marshal. "Thousands will be marching telling you they're woes of wishes, and what they need from this administration to feel safe," said Morrison.

Click here for more stories on the ABC mini-series "When We Rise."