Blazing River Freedom Band

Cleveland, OH – December 8, 2008 – The Blazing River Freedom Band as part of 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.

Related Links:
MinnPost.com
NYTIMES
Lesbian Gay Band Association