A local LGBTQ+ pride group was excluded from a southwest Iowa town’s Labor Day parade, apparently by the city’s mayor, who cited safety concerns. Shenandoah Pride planned to have a small group walking with a banner and a drag performer riding in a convertible, with candy, popsicles, and stickers to hand out in the parade in Essex, Iowa. The parade is part of a four-day festival in Essex, which has about 720 residents. Ryan Fuller, who planned to ride in the convertible as his drag identity Cherry Peaks, said he received an email from the parade’s organizer notifying him of the decision. Essex Mayor Calvin Kinney spearheaded the decision, with no motions or city council vote. Council Member Heather Thornton, who disagreed with the move, said “it was the mayor himself,” and added she was told he had the authority and didn’t need a council vote. Despite the parade decision, Shenandoah Pride had a vendor booth at the festival. #Queer Up Gay Culture