Pittsfield — According to the Pittsfield Police Department, a bomb threat was made during a Drag Story Hour event held at WANDER Berkshires on Saturday, March 22.
The event was a fundraiser organized by Drag Story Hour Berkshires to celebrate its first anniversary.
According to Pittsfield Police Chief Thomas Dawley, at around 8:30 p.m. on March 22, Pittsfield Police Dispatch received information of a possible bomb threat.
“The source of information was an email that was initially sent to an Administrator of the Pittsfield Public Schools, who in turn notified PPD,” Dawley wrote to The Berkshire Edge via email. “There was no mention of a time frame or device activation. Pittsfield police and fire were immediately dispatched to 34 Depot Street and an evacuation of the premises was completed safely. Massachusetts State Police Bomb Squad were also dispatched to the location to conduct a sweep and no devices were located. With the assistance of the MSP’s Critical Incident Technical Investigations Team and the Pittsfield Police Detective Bureau, it was quickly determined that the this was a swatting incident, and the source of the email came from outside the United States.”
Chief Dawley added that the bomb threat is under investigation.
On Sunday, March 23, Drag Story Hour, WANDER Berkshires, and Berkshire Pride, issued the following statement:
Last night, in the face of fear and intimidation, our community did what it always does: we gathered, we showed up, and we celebrated unapologetically. Although new and continuing threats are made, our joy was not dimmed, and our mission remains unwavering. Attempts to silence or scare us only reveal why our visibility, pride, and presence are more crucial than ever.
Our community rallied together — dancing, laughing, and lifting each other up. We are part of an irresistible revolution: one powered by love, fueled by joy, and rooted in the unshakable belief that everyone deserves to be seen, valued, and free.
Action is the antidote to fear. By standing together, continuing to create vibrant and safe spaces, and refusing to be pushed into the shadows, we send a clear message: We are not afraid. We are not going anywhere.
To those who would attempt to sow fear — know this: you’ve only strengthened our resolve. Our joy is our resistance. Our love is our power. Our community will continue to rise louder, prouder, and more united.
We are here. And our revolution is unstoppable.
Now more than ever, we call on our community and allies to take action: show up, donate your time, lend your voice, offer your resources, and stand beside us. Every act of allyship helps fortify our movement.
This story was updated at 5:37 p.m. on March 23.
