STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. — On Sunday, a new tradition was born.
Like most St. Patrick’s parades, the green and orange flags were flown, the shamrocks were proudly held and worn, and hand knit Irish sweaters adorned attendees young and old. But unlike every single Staten Island parade held to mark St. Patrick’s Day in previous year, this specific gathering served as an oasis for folks of all backgrounds.
The inaugural St. Patrick’s Day Parade — hosted by the Forest Avenue Business Improvement District (BID) — was the result of an effort that grew after years of outrage, and eventually evolved into a purposeful movement to create a celebration of Irish heritage that welcomed the entire community, notably the LGBTQ+ population that’s long pledged support to fellow Staten Islanders.
The event drew scores of attendees who lined Forest Avenue in West Brighton when the parade kicked off at noon at Hart Boulevard and Forest, just like the long-running Staten Island St. Patrick’s Parade did two weeks earlier.
This new parade welcomed all groups purposefully excluded from the March 3 St. Patrick’s Parade held by the Staten Island St. Patrick’s Parade Committee, including the Pride Center of Staten Island. The organization has repeatedly been denied the right to march, with reasons being cited by the committee as the teachings of the Catholic Church.
“I feel just so appreciative and grateful,” said Carol Bullock, the Pride Center’s executive director, during a pre-parade breakfast held at Jody’s Club Forest. “I mean, I feel the unity and love in this room right now.”
The New York City St. Patrick’s Day Parade — held yesterday in Manhattan — ended a two-decade ban of LGBTQ+ groups in 2014. Parades in Boston and Dublin have done the same.
New York City Mayor Eric Adams said he was happy to play a role when the St. Patrick’s Day parade was requested was made by the Forest Avenue BID.
“The largest Irish population is right here in New York City,…
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