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Delray Beach Cancels St. Patrick's Day Parade and Pride Event
Officials said Senate Bill 1134 bars the city from supporting events tied to diversity, equity and inclusion activities.
On Tuesday, Delray Beach officials announced they will not host the city's annual St. Patrick's Day or Pride events in 2027, citing a new Florida law banning municipal funding or promotion of diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives.
Senate Bill 1134, signed by Florida Governor Ron DeSantis in April, prohibits local governments from funding or promoting activities referenced by ethnicity, sexual orientation, or gender identity starting January 1, 2027.
Dating back to 1968, the St. Patrick's Day parade has grown into "one of South Florida's largest annual" events, triggering significant backlash from residents on social media following the announcement.
Delray Beach Mayor Tom Carney, a Republican, vowed to fight for the parade's survival, while City Manager Terrence Moore said a "private interest" could sponsor the event.
Organizers may still secure permits issued "in a content-neutral manner," as the legislation allows cities to provide public safety services for privately funded gatherings.