In 2014, Bill deBlasio became the first New York mayor in a generation to boycott the event, due to the ban on openly gay groups. The move comes amid increasing pressure on organisers to allow for a fully inclusive parade. O'Byrne, and organiser Brendan Fay on his right. New York Mayor Bill deBlasio waves an Irish flag at the 2015 St Pat's for All parade in Queens, with Kerry Kennedy (L), the actor Brian F. Patrick’s Day Parade, a vital expression of our heritage and culture. With this decision, we are transformed from cultural outsiders to insiders who can share in the St.
