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The Vallarta Gay+ Community Center (VGCC) has launched “Zona Safe,” an initiative aimed at significantly enhancing safety and fostering collaboration between local authorities, businesses, and the LGBTQ+ community in Puerto Vallarta.
Zona Safe, formally introduced to the public during Vallarta Pride Week at a press conference, is built on three core pillars: prevention, presence, and partnership. At its heart is a dedicated WhatsApp group, allowing participating local businesses and community members to report incidents in real-time, ranging from emergencies to instances of police harassment or suspicious activities. This direct line of communication is monitored by Commandant José Daniel and his leadership team.
Poncho Davalos, a key figure in the program’s development and presentation, articulated its driving force: “This is about Prevention, Eyes on the Street, and Follow-Up. With everyone working together, we can make Puerto Vallarta a safer, more welcoming place for all.”
Don Pickens, president of the VGCC, emphasized the program’s foundation in collective effort.
“Cooperation is key,” Pickens stated during the program’s launch. “It’s going to take time, and things won’t change overnight, but we are committed to building a safer environment for everyone.”
He highlighted the immediate impact of the program’s collaborative spirit, noting Commandant Daniel’s swift response to community feedback, such as the reassignment of an officer following complaints about harassment of LGBTQ+ tourists.
Commandant José Daniel underscored the police force’s dedication to the program.
“Our priority is to ensure the safety of all residents and visitors in Puerto Vallarta,” Daniel said. “Zona Safe provides us with a valuable tool to react quickly and effectively to any situation, reinforcing our commitment to the LGBTQ+ community.”
Beyond real-time reporting, Zona Safe will soon incorporate a volunteer “Q Patrol,” a visible community presence that will ensure trained allies are on hand during peak hours to offer support and de-escalate situations.
Additionally businesses participating in the program have posters about the initiative, signaling their commitment as safe spaces for anyone needing assistance. A comprehensive Zona Safe website will soon offer additional reporting tools and resources, creating a holistic safety network.
Puerto Vallarta has long been a beacon for LGBTQ+ travelers, often hailed as the “San Francisco of Mexico.” The city has a history of proactive LGBTQ+ advocacy, with groups like Vallarta’s LGBT Collective working to educate law enforcement and hospitality staff on issues of discrimination.
The Zona Safe initiative builds upon this legacy, aiming to further cement Puerto Vallarta’s standing as a truly inclusive and secure destination.
The program’s active implementation is already fostering a heightened sense of security and community engagement. Regular meetings between the VGCC, local businesses, and police leadership ensure ongoing dialogue and immediate action on emerging concerns.
If you are a business and want to join the Zona Safe group, email Tina@VallartaGayCC.org.
Esta publicación también está disponible en: English Español
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