Florida lawmakers have passed a sweeping bill that critics warn could jeopardize funding for Pride events and even St. Patrick’s Day celebrations. The state Senate approved the so-called “Anti-Diversity bill” on March 4 in a 25–11 vote. The legislation, introduced by Republican Senator Clay Yarborough, would prohibit counties from funding or promoting programs tied to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI).
If signed by Governor Ron DeSantis, the measure would take effect in 2027. It would allow fines against local governments that support activities providing preferential treatment or special benefits based on race, gender, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or gender identity. Advocates say the bill could directly affect Pride events, civil rights protests, and commemorative observances such as Black History Month or Trans Awareness Week.
According to Equality Florida senior political director Joe Saunders, the bill’s language is so broad it could even affect unrelated celebrations. Saunders said, “Senator Yarborough acknowledged that he has no idea how many existing ordinances, policies, and programs would be repealed by this legislation…He also made clear that while engineered carve-outs exist for some communities, he could identify no basis for broadly protecting the LGBTQ+ community.” Advocacy group GLAAD criticized the proposal, saying Floridians deserve leaders focused on economic issues rather than “relentless targeting of marginalised people.”
