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After Months of Pressure, Boston Pride Disbands Organization Instead of Adding QTBIPOC and Allies’ Voices to the Board; [Story Still Unfolding]
BOSTON In a press release received late this evening, Boston Pride informed media outlets about their decision to dissolve the organization, according to the statement sent by its current Board of Directors.
“It is clear to us that our community needs and wants change without the involvement of Boston Pride,” read the release whose letterhead showed the names of its Board one last time, President Linda DeMarco, Treasurer Malcolm Carey, Clerk Martha Plaza, and members Deborah Drew and Tina Rosado. “We have heard the concerns of the QTBIPOC community and others. We care too much to stand in the way. Therefore, Boston Pride is dissolving. There will be no further events or programming planned, and the board is taking steps to close down the organization.”
Spectators watch from balconies along the route of the Gay Pride Parade, Saturday, June 8, 2019, in Boston. (Elise Amendola/AP)
When Jo Trigilio received a letter from Boston Pride alleging her organization was infringing on Boston Pride s name, she says she was, shocked. We wanted to engage in dialog with Boston Pride s board. But then this happened.
Trigilio founded Pride for the People, formerly Boston Pride 4 the People, with other community members back in June. The group changed its name after receiving a cease and desist letter from Boston Pride. The letter, addressed to Trigilio, Henry Paquin, Casey Dooley and Valerie Bee alleges inappropriate use of the Boston Pride name.