For Immediate Release – GPD Press Release
Glendale, CA – On June 6, 2023, the Glendale Police Department responded to a protest at the Glendale Unified School District Headquarters (200 block of North Jackson Street) in Glendale.
Several hundred protesters gathered, many waving the American flags and LGBTQ+ Pride flags, outside the scheduled GUSD Board Meeting. The opposing sides represented parents who oppose GUSD policies in support of LGBTQ+ classroom curriculum. Both sides took to social media to rally their supporters to convene at GUSD Headquarters ahead of the last Board meeting of the school year.
The police department was present to ensure public safety and facilitate peaceful demonstrations.
While most of the protest was peaceful, a small group of individuals engaged in behavior deemed unsafe and a risk to public safety. Despite police attempts to de-escalate the situation, at least three individuals were arrested for various charges, including unlawful use of pepper spray and willfully obstructing officers in the course of their duties.
After the initial arrests, additional attempts to de-escalate the crowd failed.
Once the protest exceeded the bounds of peaceful assembly and in adherence to our duty to protect public safety, a dispersal order was given just after 6:00 pm. Additional police resources were requested to ensure the safety of the Glendale community would not be compromised.
The Glendale Police Department acknowledges and respects the right of individuals to peacefully assemble and express their opinions. We encourage continued open dialogue and constructive engagement with community members. The Glendale Police Department remains committed to fostering positive relationships and working collaboratively with community leaders and organizations to address concerns and find common ground.
Photos: from Social Networks
