Marchers carry American flags as theY make their way up...

Marchers carry American flags as theY make their way up 5th Avenue during the 252th New York City St. Patrick's Day Parade on March 16, 2013. AFP PHOTO / DON EMMERT Credit: FDNY march in last year's St. Patrick's Day Parade on March 16, 2013. (AFP/Don Emmert)

No one said that people who are gay cannot march in New York City's St. Patrick's Day parade ["Mayor's marching orders," News, Feb. 5].

The only rule is that they not carry signs or otherwise display their sexual preference.

Heterosexuals do not carry signs or advertise their sexual preference. Everyone should be able to live their lives as he or she wishes, but what is this need to tell the world?

Adrienne Brownstein, Beechhurst
 

I am outraged that New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio refuses to march in the St. Patrick's Day Parade because gay people are not permitted to display anything referring to sexual orientation.

What is missing here is any cogent thought on the matter.

It is a parade honoring a Catholic saint, not a venue for people to express views.

The organizers are free to invite whomever they wish.

It's funny, but when de Blasio marches in gay pride parades, there is no outcry from straight people.

More ludicrous was the demand by Public Advocate Letitia James to prohibit police or firefighters from marching in uniform.

I bet she would not turn away a uniformed cop or firefighter who came to her aid.

John Savin, Massapequa
 

So Mayor Bill de Blasio has chosen to thumb his nose at the St. Patrick's Day Parade this year.

Well, the Irish have marched proudly for hundreds of years and will continue after they say good riddance to de Blasio.

You can't stop Irish pride or beliefs.

Kevin J. Mullen, Holtsville
 

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