Parasol Patrol

Colorado / 2019

In 2019, Eli Bazan’s all-ages drag show in Colorado received an influx of hate mail that included death threats and plans to lock the doors and burn the building. In response Bazan stood guard at the event, and continued to do so at following events, recruiting a growing group of volunteers seeking to protect LGBTQ+ youth events and the families that attended them. 

Bazan joined forces with activist Pasha Ripley to found the nonprofit Parasol Patrol, a group of dedicated volunteers who use rainbow umbrellas to shield children and families so they can enjoy these events without the watchful eye of anti-LGBTQ protestors.

Volunteers go through training, where they are taught to be non-confrontational, and to not engage with potentially dangerous protestors. Now with 14 chapters across the country, the group stands up against designated hate groups such as the Proud Boys and the Patriot Front with colorful umbrellas, costumes, and music. They have expanded their presence beyond LGBTQ+ youth events to include protection across a range of actions including campus rallies at the University of Denver and the March 4 Black Women in Denver. The organization has successfully mobilized hundreds of volunteers to counter the threats of far-right groups attempting to devalue and silence families and communities across the country.