On Monday evening, the Bellevue Police Department briefed the Bellevue City Council on their new “Safe Place” initiative, marking the official launch of the program. The Bellevue Police Department Safe Place program was modeled after a similar program created by the Seattle Police Department. The goal of the program is to create safe locations for individuals to visit if they feel they have been a victim of anti-LGBTQ crimes.

The police department Safe Place signage and decals are displayed by participating community members, businesses, schools and organizations that work closely with the Bellevue Police Department.

It’s part of an effort to reduce anti-LGBTQ crimes, reduce LGBTQ student bullying and encourage the reporting of LGBTQ crimes. These Safe Place locations also support safe and secure places for victims of any bias-related crimes or harassment. Information about the department’s Safe Place program and how to participate are available online, www.bpdsafeplace.com.

The Bellevue Police Department will also participate in two events as part of Pride Week, June 19 – 25. They are:

Department’s LGBTQIA Advisory Council is hosting a community panel on the LGBTQIA experience in Bellevue. The panel will be held at Bellevue City Hall, 450 110th Ave. NE, in room 1E-112 and will feature four speakers representing community and city organizations on the Eastside. A question-and-answer period and reception with light snacks will follow.

– Bellevue police Department booth at Seattle PrideFest, Sunday, June 25, noon – 8 p.m.: members of the Bellevue Police Department’s recruiting team as well as representatives from the Department’s LGBTQIA advisory council will host a booth at the Seattle PrideFest event at the Seattle Center, 305 Harrison Street in Seattle. This marks the first year that the Bellevue Police Department has participated in this event.