Gay band association accepted for inauguration festivities
Obama parade will be first to feature gay groups
From Washington Blade staff reports | Dec 8, 10:48 AM

The Lesbian and Gay Band Association, a musical group with members
from gay marching and symphonic bands across the country, has been
accepted by President-elect Barack Obama to march in the 2009
inaugural parade.


This is the first inaugural parade to feature a gay group. Former
President Clinton allowed gay groups to perform on the sidewalk
during the parade, but not to march. The Lesbian and Gay Band
Association participated in both of Clinton's inaugurations.


"This is the first time that an LGBT group will be represented in a
Presidential Inaugural Parade, truly our chance to make history,"
said the association's inaugural committee to members Saturday.


"We will certainly have the biggest stage possible to remind people
of the importance of coming out and taking part in our national
community," said Cliff Norris, a member of the Atlanta Freedom Band,
which is a part of the LGBA.


Another gay group, In the Parade, has also been petitioning for a
spot in the parade, but no update on its status is available at this
time.


For more information, visit gaybands.org.