Florida’s crackdown on diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) has swept up a nearly six-decade-old St. Patrick’s Day parade, triggering outrage in Delray Beach and a scramble to save the Irish celebration.
City officials announced they would not host the parade or Pride event in 2027, citing a new state law restricting local government support for DEI activities. The decision prompted critics to point out that a campaign against identity-based programming, which has been known to target Black Americans, now threatens a longstanding celebration of Irish heritage.
“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,” officials said in a statement posted on the parade’s website.
The backlash has already pushed Mayor Tom Carney to announce efforts to preserve the parade. According to WPBF, he said the city is pursuing outside help following residents’ complaints. Those efforts do not yet amount to a confirmed rescue.
The dispute exposes the broad reach of Senate Bill 1134, which Gov. Ron DeSantis signed on April 22. His office promoted the legislation as a way to stop local governments from spending public money on DEI programs and “identity politics.”
In Delray Beach, that policy now threatens a community tradition that began in 1968.
City Manager Terrence Moore told the Sun Sentinel that a private sponsor could provide a path forward for the parade.
“We are open for business in that regard,” Moore said. Otherwise, “any DEI event we can no longer sponsor.”
Whether the law will affect additional city events remains “to be determined,” he said.
The restrictions take effect Jan. 1, 2027, and prohibit counties and municipalities from funding, promoting or taking official action related to DEI. The city’s announcement specifically identifies programming involving ethnicity, sexual orientation or gender identity.
That puts an Irish heritage parade within the same restrictions city officials say prevent them from hosting Pride.
The announcement drew frustration from people who viewed the parade as a cherished community gathering. The backlash also played out directly on the city’s Facebook page.
“I’m pissed 😡 can Delray stop ruining everything we love about this town,” one resident wrote.
The commenter described the St. Patrick’s Day parade as one of Delray’s biggest events, saying it brings thousands of people together.
“[It] is one of the funnest days of the year and has been going on for decades ! How do we fight this,” the resident asked.
Other social media users focused on the irony of an anti-DEI law reaching St. Patrick’s Day celebrations.
“They thought the law was all in favor of them, and now that it includes their holidays, they are angry as could be,” one Threads commenter wrote.
“Florida celebrating their new ‘DEI’ laws, until they realize their favorite drinking holidays are ALL DEI,” another posted. “The irony is as delicious as a perfectly poured beer,” a third wrote.
The consequences extend beyond losing city funding. Florida’s Senate summary says officials who violate the restrictions commit misfeasance or malfeasance in office. Residents can also bring legal action against a local government accused of violating the law.
Privately organized celebrations can still proceed. The legislation allows cities to issue permits without favoring particular viewpoints and provide public safety services, according to WPTV. Delray Beach’s decision concerns events the city organizes, funds, or promotes.
In its announcement, the city acknowledged what residents stand to lose.
“The City recognizes that these annual events have provided opportunities for members of the community to gather, celebrate, and connect,” officials wrote.
