Safety and security of all participants and potential protesters are top of mind of Lakeview Village Council members as plans progress toward the Indian Lake Pride event, set for Friday, June 2, and Saturday, June 3, at Emil Davis Park, 11618 State Route 720, Lakeview.
Recent council meetings have included discussions between event organizers, as well as individuals planning protests on-site during the festivities.
Brad Gerritsen, representing Indian Lake Pride, provided an update to council members regarding the event during a recent meeting.
Gerritsen informed the council that, for insurance reasons, they would not be utilizing a trailer and portable stage this year. However, he shared that there would be a bounce house as part of the festivities and possibly a dunk tank.
Concerning security matters, Gerritsen stated that he had been in contact with Logan County Sheriff Randy Dodds regarding potential issues that were raised in a previous meeting.
To ensure a safe environment, Indian Lake Pride organizers have arranged for the presence of two deputies during the event, along with increased law enforcement in the surrounding area.
Gerritsen expressed confidence that no issues would arise, but assured council members that contingency plans were in place in case any protests occurred and escalated.
During an April meeting, Ken Welch voiced his desire for the Indian Lake Pride Event to be restricted to individuals aged 18 and above. Citing concerns about child safety due to drag shows and the presence of beer trucks, Welch identified himself as a member of an anti-drag/pride organization that has actively sought to shut down similar events in the past.
Responding to Welch’s concerns, Deputy Jake Boyd emphasized that the decision to allow children to attend the Indian Lake Pride Event rests entirely with their parents. As long as no illegal activities occur and law enforcement is present, Boyd assured the council that there should be no issues. He further pointed out that children frequently attend events where alcohol is served.
Mayor Ryan Shoffstall confirmed that all the necessary requirements to reserve the park for the event had been fulfilled, and no illegal activities were associated with it.
Stressing the values of openness and acceptance, Shoffstall stated that the village and council had no grounds for complaints or objections against the event. He noted that no complaints were lodged following last year’s event.
During the discussion, Welch informed the council that his group planned to protest at the event and suggested the need for additional security and law enforcement presence.
Mayor Shoffstall questioned whether Welch was implying a threat of violence, to which Welch responded that while his group was not violent, there was a possibility of violence from other attendees.
Deputy Boyd assured the council and Welch that he would relay all the information to the Logan County Sheriff’s Office, ensuring their awareness and preparedness for any potential issues at the event.
Inquiring about the permitted areas for protesters, the question was asked if they could be on village property and how close they were allowed to be. Deputy Boyd clarified that protesters were not permitted to obstruct walkways, entrances, or exits, nor were they allowed to harass or behave obscenely or threaten others.
Welch informed the council that he and his group intended to encourage other organizations to join their protest, potentially leading to conflicts. He referred to a recent Pride event that turned violent and recommended that the council review the footage to comprehend the potential risks.
Deputy Boyd assured the Council that he would relay this information to his department, ensuring that they remain vigilant and prepared for any eventualities during the Indian Lake Pride Event.
With preparations underway, organizers and local authorities are working together to ensure a safe and inclusive environment for participants and attendees at the Indian Lake Pride Event.