Chris Kluwe Announced as Next Twin CIties Pride Grand Marshal

Editor's Note: This article was originally published May 7, 2013.

Gay rights activist and Minnesota Vikings punter Chris Kluwe will be grand marshall for the 2013 Twin Cities Pride Parade this summer.

"To me, it’s not about being an athlete speaking out about gay marriage or equality," Twin Cities Pride quoted Kluwe as saying in a press release. "It’s about being a human being saying ‘It’s not acceptable that this huge population of individuals have any less rights than me because they are gay.’ I am proud to stand with Twin Cities Pride as an ally with pride."

Kluwe was nominated by Carol Stoddart of the American Civil Liberties Union of Minnesota, and many others, according to the release.

“It has been incredibly inspiring to see Chris take such a solid and outspoken stance for gay marriage and GLBT support,” Dot Belstler, Twin Cities Pride executive director, said. “His voice has provided hope, encouragement and excitement to a huge population of supporters in our community, and it is my honor to have him as a part of our celebration.”

The 41st annual parade is from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sunday, June 30 in downtown Minneapolis. Festivities will run from June 28-30. For more information on Twin Cities Pride, go to tcpride.org.

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