In reversal of last year's turmoil, Franklin Pride 2024 approved unanimously

The Franklin Board of Mayor and Aldermen has unanimously approved the annual Pride event for the fourth year in a row.

The popular Franklin Pride festival draws about 7,000 attendees, but it came under heavy scrutiny last year from residents who said they were concerned that it promotes sexualized drag performances.

This year, those fears are in the rearview mirror.

The nine-member board's vote of support on March 12 marked a reversal from last year's opposition that nearly canceled the event altogether.

Franklin Pride founder Robert McNamara said he was "surprised and thrilled" by the vote.

In 2023, Franklin Pride made national news after the board considered suspending its permit. It was Franklin Mayor Ken Moore who cast the tie-breaking vote that ensured the event would take place.

During extensive debate, some residents attended wearing “Choose Decency” stickers as a protest against the event that they believed exposed young people to "adult-oriented performances."

McNamara said the change in perspective this year reflects the recent change in board members. Then-Alderman Gabrielle Hanson voted against the permit last year and argued she didn't feel organizers could be trusted to host the event again at a city park due to a drag performance taking place at the event.

"I believe that toxicity has left the BOMA board and made a big difference," McNamara said.

Festival planners, including McNamara, said they expect this year will be their largest event and turnout to date because it's an election year.

"We're expecting a bigger crowd as we're expanding our footprint," he said. "We are also ramping up security to ensure the safety of all participants."

The event is planned for June 1. It will take place at the Park at Harlinsdale Farm. Organizers are asking for donations to ensure the event's success.

Information about how to get involved can be found at www.franklinpridetn.org/.

This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: Franklin Pride 2024: City board approves festival in unanimous vote