St. Patrick’s Day parade canceled in Florida thanks to state’s anti-DEI law

Key Points:

• The city of Delray Beach canceled its 60-year-old St. Patrick’s Day parade and annual Pride celebration after reviewing Florida Senate Bill 1134, an anti-DEI law signed by Governor Ron DeSantis that takes effect in 2027 and restricts municipal funding and promotion of diversity, equity, and inclusion activities.
• Delray Beach officials stated they are legally prohibited from organizing, funding, or promoting these events under the new law, but private entities may still sponsor similar events.
• Delray Beach Mayor Tom Carney expressed commitment to ensuring the 2027 St. Patrick’s Day parade proceeds, emphasizing its cultural significance, but did not comment on efforts to salvage the Pride celebration.
• A DeSantis spokesperson accused Delray Beach officials of “malicious compliance,” claiming the cancellations were not legally required but rather political stunts to attract media attention.
• Governor DeSantis has actively opposed DEI initiatives, previously signing legislation in 2023 that defunded diversity programs at Florida colleges, and is considered a likely GOP presidential candidate.