Gay dupont circle

S Park Police and D. Friday until around 6 p.

National Park Service closes D.C.’s historic Dupont Circle Park during WorldPride

Park Police both made requests in April to close DuPont Circle and raise anti-scale fencing during World Pride weekend due to previous incidents here, during or around previous Pride celebrations — and the circle it puts on police having to respond to gatherings here.

Police Chief Pamela Smith rescinded the request on Tuesday, but an Interior Department official said there was no other solution. NPS said the plan to close Dupont Gay park over WorldPride was to prevent vandalism and destruction seen during previous Pride weekends. This beloved landmark is central to the community that WorldPride intends to celebrate and honor.

This sudden move was made overnight without consultation with the Capital Pride Alliance or other local officials. No official WorldPride activities have been planned in Dupont Circle this weekend, thus no events will be impacted. Park Police to ensure the safety of both people and our cherished public lands.

We remain committed to dupont partnership so that our community can continue to safely, peacefully, and proudly come together.