Staten Island hosted its first St. Patrick’s Day parade that officially welcomed LGBTQ-plus groups on Sunday.
Called the “Forest Avenue St. Patrick’s Day Parade,” the event was announced by Mayor Adams in February as a response to the original Staten Island St. Patrick’s Day parade, which was held March 3, and bans gay groups from participating.
About three dozen groups marched, including the Gay Officers Action League, the Spotlight Theatre Company, and the Pride Center of Staten Island. Mayor Eric Adams, Attorney General Letitia James, Senator Jessica Scarcella-Spanton, and Public Advocate Jumaane Williams also attended.
Sidewalks along Forest Avenue were lined with spectators of all ages, ranging from small children to senior citizens, many waving rainbow flags.
Brendan Fay, a Staten Island resident from Ireland, marched alongside his husband with the Lavender and Green Alliance, a group that celebrates Irish LGBTQ-plus identities. Fay founded the organization in 1994.
“This is a historic moment,” said Fay. “Today this parade has said we were welcome."
At the end of the parade, members of the Pride Center of Staten Island shared a round of emotional hugs, celebrating the first time their banners have been welcomed at a St. Patrick's Day parade in their borough.
