A federal judge has ruled that Prattville, Alabama, must allow an LGBT-themed float in its annual Christmas parade. The decision also requires the city to provide security for the group after its members reported receiving threats, sparking debate over the role of courts in local holiday events.
Prattville Pride, the group behind the float, initially gained approval to participate but asked for additional police presence as a precaution. Mayor Bill Gillespie Jr. responded by removing the float from the parade, citing concerns for public safety.
“The City will always respect freedoms and rights of expression. However, as in this instance, it must put the overall safety of its citizens first,” Gillespie said, explaining that the decision aimed to protect all parade participants and bystanders.
The group challenged the decision in court, leading U.S. District Judge R. Austin Huffaker Jr. to order the city to reinstate the float and provide the requested security. Prattville Pride celebrated the ruling, describing it as a victory for visibility and inclusion.
Residents of Prattville, a town of about 38,000 people, have expressed mixed reactions. Many argue that the parade should remain focused on Christmas, free from political or social agendas. “This is supposed to be about the holiday, not about forcing unrelated causes into our traditions,” one resident said.
The parade is set to proceed with the float included, but the controversy has raised broader questions about federal intervention in local events and the preservation of community traditions during the holiday season.
