A St. Patrick’s Day parade on Staten Island will openly welcome members of the LGBTQ+ community for the first time.
The new parade, officially known as the Forest Avenue St. Patrick’s Day Parade, kicks off in the borough on Sunday at noon. Mayor Eric Adams announced it last month as an alternative to the original Staten Island St. Patrick’s Day parade, which has banned LGBTQ+ groups from participating.
Carol Bullock, executive director of the Pride Center of Staten Island, said she’s “overjoyed” her organization will join the new parade after the older parade’s organizers denied the Center’s applications to participate for years.
“It’s so awesome,” Bullock said. “I don’t even think that word does it justice, but it’s just so great that we’re an amazing organization who does great work on Staten Island. And I’m just so proud and happy.”
About 60 members of the Pride Center and their supporters will march with a large banner at Sunday’s parade, according to Bullock. The Forest Avenue Business Improvement District is organizing the event.
“I just hope everyone comes out and celebrates their Irish heritage,” Bullock said. “And really understands what a great community we have on Staten Island and just has a fun, awesome day.”
“Come out and show your Irish pride,” said Nina Flores, executive director of the Forest Avenue BID. “Everyone should feel valued, welcomed, respected and included.”
The Staten Island St. Patrick’s Day parade was held on March 3. The New York City St. Patrick’s Day Parade, which ended its ban on LGBTQ+ groups about a decade ago, will take place in Manhattan this Saturday.
The Forest Avenue parade is free to attend and open to the public. Here’s more information about how to watch.
When is the parade?
The parade steps off at noon on Sunday, March 17.
How long will the parade last?
The parade will last about three hours.
Where is the parade?
The nearly 1-mile route will proceed along Forest Avenue in Staten Island, starting…
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