As Archbishop of Dublin Dermot Martin said about homophobia last weekend: "it is the person who is offended who defines what being offended is." In that regard, denial of permission to participate in the largest celebration of Irishness in the United States on St Patrick's Day constitutes a cruel rejection of the Irish-American gay community. Tradition is always mutable. The Ancient Order of Hibernians, who organise this special New York parade, should have regard to changing public attitudes; the larger issue of human rights and the potentially harmful message its ban promulgates within the community.
Mayor of New York Bill de Blasio has decided he cannot take part in the parade because it withholds recognition from gay and lesbian groups. In a city with a large Irish-American electorate, that decision represents a challenge to traditional prejudices while reflecting changing political realities. His stance echoed criticism of Russia because of the way gay people are treated there. There is a world of difference between the levels of discrimination and human rights abuses involved, but the tendrils of prejudice share common roots.
At a time when gay rights are making good progress in this State and the Government is preparing a referendum on same-sex marriages, official participation in the New York parade has the capacity to send confusing messages. Down the years, public celebrations of an Irish heritage have provided successive governments with parallel access to political and corporate America. The arrangements have been valuable on many levels and should not be jeopardised. In this instance, parade organisers can remove a source of embarrassment for Taoiseach Enda Kenny, who has accepted an invitation to attend, by lifting their prohibition on gay participation. The heavens would not fall.
The parade along Fifth Avenue has developed over many decades to celebrate the success of a scattered diaspora and a more confident Irish identity. It should be as inclusive, as creative and as inspirational as possible.