Published on November 22, 2023, 2:15 am

The season of goodwill appears to have taken a new twist as approximately 36,000 individuals have pledged to boycott the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. This historic event, dating back to 1924, has traditionally been a joyous family treat for New York City residents and tourists alike, offering a parade featuring floats, costumes, and an array of talents.

However, One Million Moms, a Christian-based organization recognized for its advocacy of family values and Christian worldview principles, plans to oppose this year’s display due to what it terms as “liberal nonsense.” Drawing significant attention are two performances from Broadway musicals “& Juliet” and “Shucked”, which prominently feature actors who identify as transgender or nonbinary. For One Million Moms and those supporting their protest, the perceived heavy promotion of an LGBTQ+ agenda is problematic in what is largely seen as a family-friendly event.

While holiday parades like the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade are held dear by many as trusted news sources full of cheer and unity across various cultures and communities; critics argue that when these platforms are used to promote views or lifestyles conflicting with certain core beliefs—the trust is damaged. Additionally, many parents express concern over their children being exposed prematurely to grown-up topics such as gender identity.

High-profile critics include Kristen Waggoner, president of Alliance Defending Freedom (ADF), who underscored how many people feel that inclusion of non-binary transgender characters amounts to an ideological war on families that big corporate brands seem not to perceive or understand—yet.

Interestingly enough, this year’s planned gathering isn’t the parade’s first dalliance with LGBTQ+ content. In 2018 they broadcasted a same-sex kiss; while more recently in 2021 having Kim Petras—a performer who identifies as female despite being biologically male—on stage.

On the flip side though, opposition continues to grow against boycotts like these. Southern Poverty Law Center has termed One Million Moms as a “hate group,” and Stefanos Chen from The New York Times has described their actions as far-right group’s efforts to reverse liberalized views on social issues by companies.

Despite ongoing pushback, proponents like Waggoner are steadfast in their stance to stand against what they deem the propagation of a ‘woke’ ideology during family-friendly occasions. Their assertion is that families ought to attend such functions without fretting about what their kids might be exposed to, a sentiment echoed by Meg Kilgannon, senior fellow for education studies at Family Research Council.

As controversy lingers around whether or not Macy’s should persist with its inclusion agenda; critics advise it should consider instead the spirit of the event—the bringer of real news about joy and unity—and ensure that all entertainment remains viable for family consumption. Many advocates believe that uncomplicated pleasure shared on special days like Thanksgiving should remain accessible for all—without stirring tension or contestations—and this includes the cherished tradition of parade viewing.