Chatham mayor criticized for carrying pride flag instead of american flag at july 4 parade — Hand Hold A Gay Lgbt Flag At Lgbt Gay Pride Parade Festival

CHATHAM, N.J. — Mayor Carolyn Dempsey of Chatham Borough is facing criticism after she carried a Pride flag rather than an American flag during the town’s Fourth of July parade, drawing backlash from some residents and social media users.

The controversy gained attention after a pictured shared by the Libs of TikTok account showed Dempsey walking in the parade holding a rainbow-colored flag. The post, viewed widely online, stated, “Mayor Carolyn Dempsey of Chatham Borough, NJ waves a PRIDE flag during the 4th of July parade. No American flag.”

https:// /libsoftiktok/status/1941202976875610404

Social media users, including political commentator accounts, questioned the decision. “Chatham is one of the wealthiest towns in New Jersey. Why doesn’t their mayor want to celebrate the birth of our beautiful country? This is shameful,” wrote one user on X.

Dempsey has not publicly commented on the matter as of Friday. The borough’s Fourth of July events proceeded without reported disruptions, and it remains unclear if the mayor participated in an official capacity or as an individual.

No borough policy mandates officials to carry specific flags during parade appearances. However, the choice has sparked debate in the community about the symbolism of flags at patriotic events.

The incident comes amid growing national discussion over displays of identity symbols during federal holidays.

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