LGBT group joins NYC St. Patrick’s Day parade
By Adam Saewitz
History was made on Tuesday at the St. Patrick’s Day parade in New York City, as the first LGBT group was permitted to march up Fifth Avenue. Members of Out, a small group made up of NBCUniversal employees, marched as approved participants in the festivities, and while the inclusion was seen as a victory for the LGBT community, many feel that it was a small victory at best.
Critics point out that parade organizers once again failed to include LGBT Irish groups, who have for years fought to be included in the March 17 celebrations. Brendan Fay, organizer of Lavender & Green Alliance, an Irish LGBT group, said, “While this is a small step forward, the NBC group is not representative of many people who are proud of both their Irish and LGBT heritage. It does not honor the many people — straight and gay alike — who have worked over the years for inclusion.”
Yahoo News was at Gracie Mansion, the official residence of New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio, where he kick-started the St. Patrick’s Day celebrations, while speakers including Mayor de Blasio and Pete Hamill called for organizers of the parade to become more inclusive and open.
