In the lead-up to the annual Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade, a petition organized by One Million Moms, a group affiliated with the conservative American Family Association, has garnered nearly 17,000 signatures, expressing discontent over what they describe as a ‘non-binary and transgender extravaganza.’ The petition targets the inclusion of two transgender performers, Justin David Sullivan and Alex Newell, in the parade’s lineup, accusing Macy’s of promoting a ‘liberal LGBTQ agenda.’
The petition, which criticizes Macy’s sponsorship of the event, accuses the department store of not having the best interests of children in mind. Specifically, it takes aim at Sullivan, a trans non-binary singer set to appear with the cast of the Broadway show “& Juliet,” and Newell, a transgender individual currently featured in the Broadway production “Shucked.”
Sullivan, who plays the role of May, a non-binary friend of Juliet in “& Juliet,” has previously expressed a passion for diversity and representation. In February, Sullivan announced a decision to abstain from participating in the Tony Awards due to the male and female categories, emphasizing a commitment to inclusivity.
Meanwhile, Newell, known for his role in the musical television series Glee, became the first openly nonbinary actor to win a Tony Award in June. He is set to appear in the parade as part of the cast of “Shucked,” where he plays the character Lulu.
The petition echoes recent controversies surrounding corporate partnerships with transgender influencers, citing a backlash and boycott against Bud Light following its collaboration with trans influencer Dylan Mulvaney, which reportedly cost the company millions.
The Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade, a tradition since 1924, draws in over 50 million television viewers and 3.5 million spectators along its 2.5-mile route through New York City. Last year’s parade marked a historic moment with the inclusion of transgender pop star Kim Petras.
Despite the petition’s criticisms, Macy’s has not responded to requests for comment, leaving the debate over LGBTQ representation in mainstream events to unfold in the lead-up to the iconic holiday parade scheduled for November 23, 2023.
Over 16,000 people have signed a petition condemning the “LGBTQ agenda” and “indoctrination” in the upcoming Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. | @abigailandwords https://t.co/DGs7ZfYPao
— National Review (@NRO) November 13, 2023
