Lesbian and Gay Peace Officers Association welcomes LGBT community at Austin Pride Festival

Aside from backing the blue, the Lesbian and Gay Peace Officers Association represents a rainbow of colors. Michael Crumrine, LGPOA President said the organization is the first of its kind in Austin. "If we take away this uniform for a minute we let people see who we are when we are not on duty," Crumrine said. "As progressive as Austin is and as progressive as the police department is there's still some education that needs to be done in regards to our department and the community."

The group was created in 2009, when an academy commander denied the transport of an officer who identified as lesbian. Michael Crumrine said the commander made a comment saying, "if we have any more of them out here. What will people think." The commander was transferred and Crumrine said the department hasn't received any complaints towards LGBT officer's since.

When Crumrine first started, he said he didn't feel comfortable coming out to his department but said the department has evolved a great deal over the years. "When I started law enforcement in 1987, I couldn't be myself, because if I would they would say I was commiting a criminal act and therefore I couldn't be a cop,” said Crumrine

Under current administration Crumrine said LGBT officers feel support while wearing their badge and are able to work on breaking down barriers within the community. The group hopes with their campaign #Iamlikeyou they will be able to share their stories and show their colors with pride.