Florida city says new GOP-backed DEI law blocks St. Patrick’s parade, Pride event

Delray Beach officials announced Tuesday that they cannot host the annual St. Patrick's Day Parade or Pride event in 2027 because of a new Republican-backed state law restricting local governments from funding, promoting or taking official action related to diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) initiatives.

Following a review of the legislation, the city determined it is legally prohibited from organizing, funding, or promoting these events in 2027, according to a statement that acknowledged the events have provided community gathering opportunities.

New Law Restrictions

Florida Senate Bill 1134, which passed largely along party lines in the Republican-controlled state Legislature before being signed by Gov. Ron DeSantis in April, prohibits counties and municipalities from funding or promoting DEI initiatives directly or indirectly.

The law, scheduled to take effect Jan. 1, 2027, also restricts local governments from adopting ordinances, resolutions, rules, regulations, programs or policies related to DEI, and establishes potential consequences for officials who violate these restrictions.

The measure specifically targets programming "designed or implemented with reference to ethnicity, sexual orientation or gender identity" and restricts funding for heritage events celebrating culture and ethnicity, though it carves out exceptions for federal holidays.

Community Response

Delray Beach Mayor Tom Carney acknowledged receiving criticism for the decision, noting that "the parade means as much to you in the community as it does to me."

Carney emphasized that the parade is "engrained in the DNA of the Delray Beach community" and revealed the city is "working feverishly with multiple entities to ensure the 2027 St. Patrick's Day parade goes on as scheduled."

Fox News Digital has reached out to DeSantis' office for comment on the city's decision and the broader impact of the legislation.