They didn't confront, they simply walked in unison toward the edge of the celebration, leaving the suspects no choice but to go along. These people got the message that they were not dealing with sissies here. They were presented with a show of strength and reconsidered their intentions. There were then and probably always will be cowards who will attack a lone victim like a pack of wolves. This was always a problem on the dark streets near the Castro.
Police are cooperative, but can only do so much.
Carry a whistle and if you get in trouble, use it. Suddenly whistles were available everywhere in the Castro at a reasonable price. Most of us were doubtful that the program would meet success. But the idea caught on, and when one whistle blew, other whistles blew, and people moved in the direction of the sound. It was a matter of community pride and cooperation.