Fire Chief, Tracy Jarman, an open lesbian, stated, “This is a fun event and all employees are encouraged to participate.” When Jarman was appointed Fire Chief she stated that her homosexuality has never been an issue at the department and she has never seen any gay-related trouble. Rooney commented, “Obviously the environment at the department has changed for the worse since Jarman has been appointed Fire Chief. ‘Participation’ should be a voluntary act—these four firefighters had no choice in the matter and that is wrong no matter what one’s sexual orientation.”
Thompson commented, “This is another example of how radical homosexual activists in positions of authority force their agenda on unwilling citizens. Although the local media avoided mentioning the debauchery and the obscenity that pervaded the parade, the general public should know what went on and how these firefighters were forced to participate against their will.”