Will an Out Gay Chief Change Policing in Pgh?

When the city announced the appointment of new police Chief Larry Scirotto, they didn’t mention his gay and biracial identities. He said that’s because he wanted to be introduced on merit rather than factors outside his control, but that he’s proud to serve as Pittsburgh first openly LGBTQ+ figurehead and hopes his lived experience will have a lasting effect on local policing. So how did our LGBTQ+ advocacy community feel about it?  Reporter Jordana Rosenfeld worked with host Megan Harris for Pittsburgh City Paper to talk to folks about their expectations, and whether even just acknowledging historical harms is an OK place to start. ICYMI: Megan talked to Chief Scirotto yesterday. Hear their full conversation on queer representation in the Pittsburgh bureau, how and why he decided to come out when he did, and what he hopes his influence means to people in Pittsburgh. This conversation is the second in a two-part series.  Check out the great work of the people and organizations we cite in this episode: Proud Haven Pgh Lesbian Correspondents Dade Lemanski Want to submit a peaceful, nonviolent event to the city? Find more info here. Want some more Pittsburgh news?  Make sure to sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter. We’re also on Twitter @citycastpgh & Instagram @CityCastPgh! Not a fan of social? Then leave us a voicemail at 412-212-8893. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.