The Arlington County Police Department (ACPD), alongside its Community Engagement Division and LGBTQ+ Liaison Team, will host its 6th annual "Pride with the Police" event on Thursday, June 25, 2026. This informal gathering at Freddie’s Beach Bar and Restaurant aims to celebrate Arlington's vibrant LGBTQ+ community and foster stronger relationships between residents and public safety personnel.
Attendees are invited from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at 555 23rd Street S. to enjoy light refreshments, participate in LGBTQ+ bingo, and discuss public safety concerns in a welcoming environment free of speeches or agendas. The event will include participation from the Arlington County Fire Department, Sheriff’s Office, Department of Public Safety Communications and Emergency Management, Arlington Addiction Recovery Initiative, Doorways, and Path Forward.
This year's event also marks the 20th anniversary of ACPD’s LGBTQ+ Liaison Team, established in 2006. The team has consistently worked to build trust, promote inclusivity, and strengthen relationships through advocacy, outreach, education, and support, ensuring all community members feel seen, heard, and supported.
Arlington County received national recognition in 2025 from the Human Rights Campaign, scoring 100 out of 100 on the Municipal Equality Index. This acknowledgment highlights the county's high standards for LGBTQ+ inclusiveness and protections, including non-discrimination laws, transgender-inclusive healthcare benefits for employees, and robust law enforcement efforts, such as hate crime reporting and community engagement. The "Pride with the Police" event reaffirms the commitment to working in partnership with the community to enhance safety, mutual respect, and equality for all.