LGBTQ Center To Offer Safe Space During Modesto 'Straight Pride Parade'
MODESTO (CBS13) – One group says it will provide safe spaces for members of the LGBTQ community during the "straight pride parade" planned for August.
RELATED: Straight Pride Parade Permit Submitted To City Of Modesto
The National Straight Pride Coalition recently filed paperwork with the city of Modesto to hold the event on Aug. 24 at Modesto's Graceada Park. It is being promoted as a celebration of being heterosexual, Christian and of Western civilization.
In response to the event, the Central Valley Pride Center says it will stay open from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. that day for anyone who's concerned about backlash during the weekend event.
Rep. Josh Harder, congressman for California's 10th District which includes Modesto, said in a statement that he was alarmed to hear about the planned straight pride parade in his home district.
"When I learned more about the 'National Straight Pride Coalition' group that's planning this event - I became even more upset," Rep. Harder said in a statement. "They have documented ties to white supremacy and hate groups - that's not who we are in the Central Valley."
The event comes after a planned straight pride parade in Boston met significant backlash.