An anti-LGBTQ group in Idaho is making waves — and raising eyebrows — with its announcement of a so-called “Heterosexual Awesomeness Fest” set for June 20 and 21 in downtown Boise, right in the middle of Pride Month. Critics worry events like this often mask homophobia under a thin veneer of patriotism and performative “family values.”
The event website declares, “This ain’t your limp-wristed woke fest,” calling it “a full-on celebration of family values with guts.” The group behind the event, led by bar-owner Mark Fitzpatrick, brands itself as “a battle-ready force in the culture war,” railing against LGBTQ inclusion, DEI programs, and public education.
Fitzpatrick’s bar, the Old State Saloon, will host themed events like “Heterosexual Karaoke” and a “Constitutional Conservative Conga Line,” led by someone dubbed “Dancin’ Donna.” Discounts will be given to “XX” and “XY” chromosome holders, though the bar hasn’t explained how they plan to verify anyone’s DNA.
The bar says, “This celebration of traditional gender norms and heterosexual awesomeness is set to be… the talk of those who still believe in the charm of a good old-fashioned, non-rainbow-colored party.” Events like this aren’t new, or particularly successful.
In 2019, Boston’s “Straight Pride” parade, hosted by Super Happy Fun America, drew just 100 to 200 attendees and was widely considered a far-right flop. California’s version saw 20 attendees and 200 counter protesters. And in 2015, a “Straight Pride” march in Seattle had just one participant — the organizer himself. As Boise’s queer community prepares to celebrate Pride, many are expected to show up in protest — peacefully and proudly.
