OGUNQUIT, Maine — One Maine police department is going the extra mile to show support for the LGBTQ+ community this Pride month.
Officers in Ogunquit are wearing a new patch on their uniforms with the department's seal over a rainbow backdrop.
The community has been a welcoming haven for LGBTQ+ people for decades, so this year the police union voted unanimously in support of creating the patches as a visible display of acceptance.
Ogunquit Police Chief John Lizanecz told NEWS CENTER Maine the response to the Pride patches has been overwhelmingly positive.
"It's incredible, the show of love and support," he said. "People have thanked us for doing it. It's not about that. It's about showing support for those in our community that need it."
In a post on Facebook, the department wrote, "We believe that by visibly demonstrating our support, we can contribute to a more open and supportive community for everyone."
Greg Testa, who works as an administrator at the department, said they have been selling patches to members of the community and tourists. A portion of the proceeds are going to the Frannie Peabody Center, the state's largest HIV/AIDs organization.
"I think what it says is we welcome everybody and we serve all," Testa said.
The department plans to wear the patches as officers choose throughout the month of June.