SF Pride again makes Chelsea Manning a Grand Marshall

Approved drawing of Chelsea by Alicia Neal

Very interesting stuff is happening at SF Pride.

Remember when they tried to make Chelsea Manning a Grand Marshal? Well, they did it again, she is now an Honorary Grand Marshal.

The 2014 Pride Committee explained their reasons why she was chosen. The new Board President, Gary Virginia, said:

SF Pride’s oversight of the Electoral College community grand marshal nomination and election process in 2013 was mishandled. Even with this controversy, thousands of Manning supporters in the 2013 Pride Parade represented the largest non-corporate, walking contingent in the parade. I want to publicly apologize to Chelsea Manning and her supporters on behalf of SF Pride, and we look forward to a proper honor this year.

 This issue caused a lot of drama last year and it seems to do so now.

National Military Activist Sean Sala released this statement on the matter:

"As the one who lead the campaign and national boycott last year against San Francisco Pride when they chose to make Chelsea Manning (former Bradley Manning) their Grand Marshall; I learned yesterday that they have once again chose to do so. I could make a statement grand and tailored for the decision but the bottom-line is this: after the national backlash last year, the fact that SF Pride would do this once again is just astounding. They will reap what they sow. You reap lawlessness, don't expect it to help you in the end. They have once again spit in the face of the LGBT Military community, all in the name of senseless ideology. Once again, SHAME on San Francisco Pride."

More to come

My thoughts on Bradley Manning/Grand Marshal Drama

Whose bright idea was it to make Bradley a grand marshal of SF Pride? Luckily, it was short-lived and shut down.

Truth be told, I'm not seeing this 'Bradley Manning a hero' thing.

I read many posts and personal blogs, and I can't... I can't. This man leaked thousands files that put many folks in danger. I know he was fighting against DADT, but he could've cost lives or set off a deadly chain reaction of events.

Regardless of how 'hororable' his actions were, it was still foolish and dangerous. Now, some would disagree, but many agree.

 Manning is considered disgrace, a traitor and selfish. For example, Stephen Peters, president of American Military Partners Association, said:

"Manning's blatant disregard for the safety of our service members and the security of our nation should not be praised. The group, which advocates for same-sex military families, had called on the Pride Committee to rescind the invitation.

"No community of such a strong and resilient people should be represented by the treacherous acts that define Bradley Manning,"

Harsh words, but very real.

I can't see Manning as a hero, I do think he's guilty. Hell, he pleaded guilty. So why would stand for this guy who could've dropped some serious drama our way?

I don't know, if y'all have any opinions on this please share them.

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