Organizers of Boston’s “Straight Pride” parade named right-wing provocateur Milo Yiannopoulos as the event’s grand marshal.
Leaders of the group Super Happy Fun America say the parade will “advocate on behalf of the straight community.” The group named Yiannopoulos, an openly gay, far-right provocateur, as the parade’s grand marshal and mascot.
“I might technically be a sequined and perfectly coiffed friend of Dorothy’s, but I’ve spent my entire career advocating for the rights of America’s most brutally repressed identity — straight people — so I know a thing or two about discrimination,” Yiannopolis said in a statement.
“This parade is a gift to anyone, male or female, black or white — gay and transgender allies, too! — who will stand with us and celebrate the wonder and the majesty of God’s own heterosexuality,” Yiannopolis added. “Men, bring your most toxic selves. Women, prepare to burn your briefcases! Because it’s great to be straight, and we’re not apologizing for it any more. We’re Here, Not Queer.”
Super Happy Fun America, led by president John Hugo, initially used Hollywood actor Brad Pitt’s likeness as its mascot, but removed Pitt’s name and image from the website after receiving a letter from his lawyers.
The parade is tentatively scheduled for Aug. 31, though the group has yet to obtain a permit to hold the event. Boston Mayor Marty Walsh said the event does not reflect on Boston’s values.
“This ‘Straight Pride Parade’ doesn’t yet have a permit, but is working to amend their application for permits to host a public event,” Walsh, a Democrat, tweeted Thursday. “Whatever outside groups may try do, our values won’t change. I invite each and every person to stand with us, and show that love will always prevail.”
Whatever outside groups may try do, our values won’t change. I invite each and every person to stand with us, and show that love will always prevail. Join us in celebration this Saturday for the @bostonpride Parade and in the fight for progress and equality for all. pic.twitter.com/AwoGuuHuVp
— Mayor Marty Walsh (@marty_walsh) June 6, 2019
