Birmingham, Ala.'s mayor announced Friday that he refuses to sign a proclamation allowing for the city's annual gay pride parade, according to the Birmingham News.
Regardless of Mayor Larry Langford's refusal, however, the parade is still set to go on as scheduled, on June 7.
Langford clarified his position Saturday, saying that although he disagrees with the event, he would not restrict the parade's application. Requests for parade permits go through the police department and typically are not signed by the mayor.
Langford told the News, "I don't think I'm intolerant; I just don't condone the lifestyle. I'm not going to endorse, condone, or condemn anybody. I'm just not going to sign the proclamation."
He cited his support for increased funding for AIDS outreach programs and a nondiscriminatory hiring policy as evidence of his fair treatment of all people.
Despite the mayor's comments, the 20th Gay Pride Parade, sponsored by Central Alabama Pride, will take place in Birmingham's Five Points South district. It is still uncertain whether the police department will approve permits allowing for banners on city property without the mayor's support.
"Central Alabama Pride is going to stand firm in who we are," said the group's president, Johnathan Quinn. "We are proud every day, and we're building a stronger community, whether it's signed off on or not." (The Advocate)
