Seattle Pride President Eric Bennett just release the following statement:
“In light of the recent press I would like to clear the air and state I misinterpreted the contractual obligations set in place for Delta Airlines and I wish to retract my statements made to the Alaska Airline Corporation with regards to participation in the 2016 Seattle Pride Parade. It was not my intention to exclude any groups or individuals, regardless of their company loyalties, employer, and group associations. While our sponsors allow us to produce a quality Pride Parade each year, I misunderstood the terms of one of these sponsorships and misrepresented that contract. I apologize for my miscommunication and any hurt feelings I caused. As always, Seattle Pride stands for inclusiveness and the celebration of all the diversity within our community. As the representatives of the Seattle Pride Board have stated, it is our goal for all members of our community to participate in the Pride Parade, and we will continue to work toward that goal. I sincerely hope GLOBE and Alaska Airlines will accept our invitation to proudly march in the parade, wearing whatever they wish, just as they have always done in the past.” ~ Eric Bennett, President, Seattle Pride