Delray Beach has canceled its 2027 St. Patrick’s Day Parade and Pride event due to a new Florida law restricting funding for diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives.
Delray Beach, Florida, has announced the cancellation of its annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade and Pride event for 2027, citing a new state law that restricts local governments from funding or promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives. This decision was made public on Tuesday by city officials, who indicated that the law prohibits certain programming and activities related to ethnicity, sexual orientation, or gender identity.
In a statement, the city explained, “Following a review of the legislation and its requirements, the City has determined that it is legally prohibited from organizing, funding, or promoting these events in 2027.” The statement also acknowledged the significance of these events, noting that they have historically provided opportunities for community members to gather, celebrate, and connect.
The law in question, Florida Senate Bill 1134, was passed by the Republican-controlled state Legislature and signed into law by Governor Ron DeSantis in April. It is set to take effect on January 1, 2027. The legislation prohibits counties and municipalities from funding or promoting DEI initiatives, either directly or indirectly. It also restricts local governments from adopting ordinances, resolutions, rules, regulations, programs, or policies related to DEI.
Moreover, the law outlines potential consequences for local officials who violate these restrictions, categorizing such violations as misfeasance or malfeasance in office. It further limits the use of local government funds by employees, contractors, and others in promoting DEI initiatives.
In addition to the restrictions on DEI initiatives, the law also limits cities from funding, hosting, or officially promoting heritage events that celebrate culture and ethnicity. However, it does provide exceptions for holidays designated by federal law, including New Year’s Day, Martin Luther King Jr.’s birthday, Presidents’ Day, Memorial Day, Juneteenth, Independence Day, Labor Day, Columbus Day, Veterans Day, Thanksgiving, and Christmas Day.
Delray Beach Mayor Tom Carney has expressed concern over the decision to cancel the St. Patrick’s Day Parade, stating that he has received numerous messages and seen social media posts criticizing the cancellation. He emphasized the importance of the parade to the community, saying, “It is clear that the parade means as much to you in the community as it does to me.” In a Facebook post, Carney explained that the bill imposes severe restrictions on how cities can fund community events like the St. Patrick’s Day Parade.
“The St. Patrick’s Day Parade isn’t just another parade. It’s ingrained in the DNA of the Delray Beach community,” he added. The mayor also mentioned that the city is actively working with various entities to find a way to ensure that the 2027 St. Patrick’s Day Parade can still take place as scheduled.
Carney concluded his remarks by expressing a desire for the parade to continue, stating, “For those who live, work & play in Delray, we want the Delray Beach St. Patrick’s Day parade to stay!”
Fox News Digital has reached out to Governor DeSantis’ office for comment on the situation.
According to Fox News, the implications of this new law have already begun to affect local celebrations and community events across Florida.