Amidst a debate around SF Pride's honorary grand marshal selection, activists are advocating for the inclusion of Andry Jose Hernandez Romero, a deported gay makeup artist facing danger. Activist Cleve Jones believes that public awareness could be critical for Romero’s safety. Despite calls for action, SF Pride has declined to honor Romero due to alleged pushback regarding the political implications of the grand marshal role. The situation recalls past controversies, emphasizing the tension between advocacy and organizational politics within Pride events.
Governor Gavin Newsom has called for Hernandez Romero's release, and local activists are taking up the young man's cause as well, highlighting the urgency of his situation.
People should not dismiss this as a purely symbolic effort. I absolutely believe that this young man's life is in grave danger, and perhaps the only thing that can save him is public attention and outcry.
SF Pride has chosen to take no substantive action to try to save this man's life, and Cleve Jones expressed his disappointment over this decision.
Jones claims SF Pride told him there was pushback about grand marshal being used that way, reflecting a reluctance to align with political advocacy.
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