Article content continued

Pride’s statement also addressed the needs of immigrants and trans people, noting that many still carry the baggage of “traumatic lived experiences” that might increase distrust.

“This decision was not made lightly, but is intended as a way to find common ground where all might feel welcome and safe,” according to the statement, which added that RPS and RCMP officers are still welcome to wear their uniforms at other pride events, such as the market and community fair.

Regina Police Chief Evan Bray said he fully accepts the board’s decision, which followed consultations with the police service. He said he hasn’t heard negative feedback from officers over the issue. An email went out Friday morning looking for marchers. In roughly an hour, about a dozen members of the police service heeded the call.

“It’s important that we recognize that this is their parade,” Bray said of the LGBTQ community. “This is their celebration, and if one of their requests is that we be there and participate but we don’t wear uniforms, we’re happy to oblige.”

He said the police are “100 per cent” behind the parade. For three years starting in 2014, they showed that by marching in uniform. Bray said it’s the easiest way to draw attention to their support.

“If you look at a crowd of people and you see a police officer in uniform you say ‘Oh, the Regina Police Service is here,’ ” he explained. “If you see Evan Bray in a T-shirt and jeans, you’re not necessarily going to know.”