WAUSAU, WI (WSAU) - Wausau’s first Gay Pride Parade is set for June 22nd, but not everyone welcomes the idea.
Parade organizer Daxx Bouvier has said the event is long overdue. He is putting about 15-thousand dollars into the event, and encouraging young people who are gay, lesbian, bisexual, or transgender to come out as see there is support.
Groups including Wisconsin Family Voice oppose the parade, saying it’s “nothing more than a display of immorality and propaganda” and sends the wrong message to young people.
A city alderman weighed in during the Council’s public comment period Tuesday night. 3rd District Alderman David Nutting expressed his opposition to the Gay Pride Parade, and says many of his constituents don’t want it.
Nutting says the Gay Pride Parade is inappropriate, and it should not be hosted. He encourages people to not attend the parade, or if you go, turn your back as a sign you don't support them.
Police Chief Jeff Hardel says the department will handle this parade like any other parade. He says they will be looking for inappropriate nudity or exposure, like they would at any other event.
The Gay Pride Parade is planned to go from Marathon Park to the 400 Block in downtown Wausau.