"The
Lesbian and Gay Band Association (LGBA), a musical organization
comprising marching and concert bands from across the United States and
around the world, has been chosen to perform in the parade for
President-elect Barack Obama's inauguration on January 20, 2009. This
is the first time in history that a lesbian, gay, bisexual and
transgender group will march in a Presidential Inaugural Parade.
The
177-piece LGBA band will join groups from across the country as well as
from the Armed Forces in the historic parade down Pennsylvania Avenue,
which follows President-elect Barack Obama's swearing-in ceremony on
the steps of the Capitol.
"I
am honored to invite these talented groups and individuals to
participate in the Inaugural Parade," Obama said in a news release.
"These organizations embody the best of our nation's history,
diversity, and commitment to service. Vice President-elect (Joe) Biden
and I are proud to have them join us in the parade."
The
LGBA concert band performed in 1993 at the inaugural celebrations for
President Bill Clinton, becoming the first lesbian, gay, bisexual and
transgender group to perform at an inauguration -- and receiving a
"thumbs-up" gesture from the President as they played "America the
Beautiful." The LGBA band also performed at President Clinton's second
inauguration in 1997.
The
selection process was conducted by the Presidential Inaugural
Committee, which, with the help of experienced military musicians,
assessed the presentations of the nearly 1,400 marching bands, drill
teams and musical groups that submitted applications to appear in the
parade. The number of groups hoping to perform in President-elect
Barack Obama's inaugural celebration represented unprecedented interest
in marching in the parade.
The
Lesbian and Gay Band Association, founded in Chicago in 1982 by seven
member bands, has grown to 34 member organizations in the United
States, Canada and Australia.
"
- From
Lesbian and Gay Band Assoc. 
