Pride organizers work to keep public safe during weekend activities

AUGUSTA, Ga. (WRDW/WAGT) – June is Pride Month, and Augusta’s celebrations are some of the largest in the Peach State.  

Last year, a record 16,000 people came to Pride to celebrate. 

We were live in downtown Augusta where Beats on Broad held its hours-long music party at the Augusta Common.  

With so many people expected to turn out this weekend, public safety is top of mind. 

It’s a time to recognize everyone in the CSRA. 

“We’ve grown and grown every year. And we’re hoping that we have at least 15 to 16,000 people show up in the next two days,” said Augusta Pride Secretary James Mintz. 

It’s a weekend Mintz says you can come as you are with no fear.  

He says organizers took great lengths to try and make that a reality. 

“We utilize Richmond County Sheriff’s Department to do our security. And we’re very happy with the announcement that there are more patrols in downtown Augusta to just try and give people more a sense of safety and crime is down in general nationwide. So, there’s no reason why you can’t come out to the Augusta common tonight and tomorrow and celebrate,” he said.  

It’s an atmosphere vendors say they are willing to take the extra effort to maintain. 

“We’ll keep an eye out for everybody’s boots. Like our young lady over here. She had to walk away. We’re gonna watch out for everybody to make sure there’s no crime going on. And if so, we know who to report it to,” said vendor Kirby Eckleberry. 

Organizers say it’s a bright weekend of festivities to look forward to. 

“A hat, sunscreen, sunglasses, drink plenty of fluids. Several booths will be offering free water and just come check out each booth that’s available here because we think that there’s some good resources here,” said Mintz. 

The festivities don’t stop after Friday night, the parade and festival will be happening tomorrow on Saturday. 

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