Kathy Hilton is backing out of the West Hollywood Pride Parade!
The City of West Hollywood previously announced on Instagram last week that The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills star would serve as the grand marshal for the event on Sunday. However, the decision quickly faced backlash on social media! Many called out Kathy’s close ties to President Donald Trump, who we all know is overseeing an administration that has enacted a broad rollback of LGBTQ+ protections. It’s unknown if she’s ever voted for him, but they were pretty friendly with each other in the past! We’ll just drop these pics (below)…
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Others also reminded everyone that Kathy was accused by her co-star Erika Jayne of calling a DJ “an old f**king [F-word].” Paris Hilton‘s mom denied ever using the homophobic slur, but Erika called BS on that. With all that in mind, it is no wonder the LGBTQ+ community isn’t thrilled about the city’s choice for the grand marshal at this year’s Pride!
Kathy now has decided to pull out of the parade due to the backlash! She said in a statement on Wednesday:
“I am honored to have been considered for this recognition and appreciative of the support I have received from members of the community throughout the year. My reason for wanting to be involved in this year’s WeHo Pride weekend was simple: to celebrate, support, and share in the joy of a community that means a great deal to so many people. Pride is, and always will be, about celebrating and uplifting LGBTQ+ voices, experiences, and achievements. I respect the thoughtful conversations that have taken place and remain deeply committed to supporting LGBTQ+ causes and visibility, including through my participation in GLAAD initiatives and events, and longstanding support of organizations such as the Elton John AIDS Foundation, the Elizabeth Taylor AIDS Foundation since its inception, Dr. Mathilde Krim, God’s Love We Deliver, and Project Angel Food.”
Kathy insisted her “support for the community and WeHo Pride is unwavering,” adding:
“This monumentally important event has always had a special place in my heart, and I will always cherish the experience I had acting as Grand Marshal of the LA Pride parade with my daughter in 2005. Thank you to everyone who works so hard to make it happen, and I wish the community nothing but love, joy, and a fantastic WeHo Pride weekend.”
For their part, the city added in the statement:
“The City of West Hollywood and WeHo Pride Parade organizers thank Kathy Hilton for her grace and her continued support of the LGBTQ+ community. Pride has always been strongest when it genuinely reflects the community. WeHo Pride is strengthened by open dialogue, mutual respect, and a shared commitment to inclusion. The City of West Hollywood remains dedicated to ensuring that WeHo Pride continues to be a joyful celebration rooted in visibility, belonging, and respect, and welcomes ongoing community conversations that help it to evolve while honoring its history and purpose.”
It’s for the best! And perhaps a suggestion to replace Kathy? What about RHOSLC‘s icon and vocal ally for the LGBTQ+ community, Bronwyn Newport?
Thoughts, Perezcious readers? Tell us in the comments (below)!
[Image via MEGA/WENN]