An organizer of a so-called 'free speech rally' and pro-gun demonstrations is attempting to bring a 'Straight Pride' parade to Boston this summer.
Joining Boston Public Radio to weigh in on "All Revved Up" were Reverend Irene Monroe and Reverend Emmett G.Price III. Monroe is a syndicated religion columnist and the Boston voice for Detour’s African American Heritage Trail, as well as a visiting researcher in the Religion and Conflict Transformation Program at Boston University School of Theology. Price is the Professor of Worship, Church & Culture and Founding Executive Director of the Institute for the Study of the Black Christian Experience at Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary.
Price said the parade reflected the anxiety of a dominant social group — straight, white men — who view any societal move toward inclusiveness as a threat to their own identity.
"In many ways, this is absolutely ludicrous. It's almost hysterically rude," he said. "It's something that, if we're confused about whether the nation centers around white men, this is the obvious statement [of that.]"
In order to move forward, the parade organizers will need to obtain a permit from the city of Boston. Mayor Marty Walsh, on Twitter, said he disagreed with the premise but added: "The City of Boston cannot deny a permit based on an organization’s values."
If the parade does take place, Monroe shared her prediction about what attendance will be like.
"There will be more protesters out there than there will actually be people [marching,]" she said.
