LGBTQ groups to march in Staten Island's alternate St Patrick’s Day Parade

[Jessica_Rose]

LGBTQ groups to march in Staten Island's alternate St Patrick's Day Parade for first time

https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/us/lgbtq-groups-to-march-in-staten-island-s-alternate-st-patrick-s-day-parade-for-first-time/ar-BB1iYKka?ocid=windirect&cvid=abbff81d0af34dc287306c253b7b8965&ei=56

Story by Laura Colgan  (27 Feb 2024)

LGBTQ groups will march under rainbow flags and banners at a St Patrick's Day parade on Staten Island in New York City for the first time this year.

Staten Island will hold a second St Patrick's Day parade welcoming LGBTQ groups this year. It follows a long-running controversy as the traditional parade bans the LGBTQ community from attending under their flag.

The alternate parade takes place on St Patrick's Day, March 17. It will take place two weeks after the parade that does not allow LGBTQ groups to march under their own banners and flags.

Groups including the Pride Center of Staten Island and the Gay Officers Action League will attend the inclusive parade this year.

New York City Mayor Eric Adams, who previously boycotted the traditional parade and was the first New York City mayor to attend the Rainbow Run before the traditional parade last year, approved the permit for the second parade.

A spokesman said: "From day one, Mayor Adams has been clear that celebrations in our city should be welcoming and inclusive. That is why we are thrilled to be collaborating with the Staten Island Business Outreach Center for their first-ever St Patrick's Day parade this year where everyone interested – regardless of their sexual orientation, gender identity, race, or beliefs – will be welcome to march together."