Florida city forced to cancel St Patrick’s Day parade due to Trump anti-diversity law

Why the parade was canceled

Delray Beach said in a statement that Senate Bill 1134 restricts certain programming and activities tied to ethnicity, sexual orientation or gender identity. The city said those limits forced it to cancel its annual St. Patrick’s Day parade.

Carney said the issue was SB 1134, not Amendment 3. He said the bill had passed both chambers and been signed by DeSantis, and that it limits how cities can pay for community events and potentially other city-sponsored activities.

Effort to restore the event

Carney said the city was working with multiple entities to try to ensure the 2027 parade goes ahead as scheduled. He also said negotiations were underway, but did not provide further details.

The mayor described the parade as deeply rooted in Delray Beach and said he had seen residents’ social media posts and received their emails. He said he would share updates as discussions progress.

Law and wider debate

DeSantis says the law requires grant recipients to certify that public funds will not advance diversity initiatives. It also sets enforcement measures, including penalties for officials who violate the law.

Republican state leaders and President Donald Trump’s administration have opposed diversity, equity and inclusion practices, arguing they discriminate against groups such as white people and men. Civil rights advocates say such initiatives help address historic inequities affecting marginalized groups, including LGBT people, women and ethnic minorities.

What the holiday represents

St. Patrick’s Day is observed in March and honors Ireland’s patron saint, as well as Irish culture and heritage. Pride festivals celebrate LGBTQ communities.