Staten Island will have a new St. Patrick’s Day parade on March 17, separate from the traditional one, to welcome LGBTQ+ groups. The change comes after years of controversy over LGBTQ+ exclusion from the official parade. The new parade, supported by the Forest Avenue Business Improvement District, aims to celebrate Irish heritage and inclusivity. Many local politicians, including Staten Island District Attorney Michael McMahon, support the new parade, which represents progress toward unity and acceptance in the community. The move is the result of the advocacy by Staten Island Advance/SILIVE.com, which also reported the news first. #Queer Up The USA View