The Year of “Bedgate” and other controversies
A turnout estimated at over 150,000 witnessed “bedgate” and “man-on-stilts”, two controversial incidents that would be discussed all summer. A third controversy, the alleged mishandling of Pride funds, would bring change to the Board. Just after Pride 1995, 11 members of Pride sent a letter to the Board demanding the ouster of the Chairman. They alleged that he had mishandled funds, including several thousand dollars raised from an event on the Esplanade, and that he failed to award two vacation packages donated by Five Star Travel. The Chairman resigned, citing personal reasons.
An unknown man on stilts marched along the sidelines of the Parade flashing his genitals at the crowd. A group of Lesbian Avengers marched next to a float with a mattress on which two women simulated sex acts. Some of the women did not wear bras. While many onlookers took both stunts in stride, others were outraged. Mayor Thomas M. Menino, who regularly marched in the Parade, was not amused: “… anyone making such displays in the future will be arrested.” Bay Windows editor Jeff Eperly wrote two editorials condemning the Lesbian Avengers and “stilt-man”, as well as “the far left” for “equating their actions with liberation”. But writer E.J. Graff contended that these acts were no more emblematic of the community than “if two straight people flashed at a straight event”. Pride issued the following statement after the Parade: “As Pride is an inclusive family and community event, inappropriate and unlawful behavior will not be condoned.”[1]
Events Included: The Coming Out Party, An Evening of Pride – Entertainment and movie Hatch Shell, Rainbow Flag Raising, 2nd Annual Pride Lights, Pride Boat Cruise, Women’s Pride Boat Cruise, A Commitment Ceremony & Hawaiian Reception, Parade, Festival and Pride Brunch.
Attendance was estimated at: 150,000 people. Globe reported 100,000.
Parade was led by Boston Police Dept. mounted patrol unit and honor guard, then Mayor Menino, them Moving Violations, etc..
Photos and Memorabilia from 1996
Event Details
Date: June 8, 1996
Theme: Pride Without Borders
Organized by: The Pride Committee Inc.
Parade Route
START – Copley Sq., Boylston St., Right on Clarendon St., Left on Tremont St., Left on Berkeley St., Right on Boylston St., Left on Charles St., Right on Beacon St. At Arlington walk to Esplanade. END
Links of Interest
- The Lesbian Avengers Swallowed Fire As A Form Of Protest, WBUR Archives
- INewsWeekly article on “Bedgate” InNewsweekly June 23, 1996, DykeMarch Archives