Antigay Pastors Object to Harlem Gay Pride Picnic

Some local pastors in New York City object to a picnic planned to celebrate Harlem Pride later this month because, as one church leader says, "God does not want to see homosexuals in our parks."

The New York Daily News reports on the opposition, which includes Dr. Ronald Ferguson, senior pastor at Antioch Church of God on West 124th Street.

"If children start to believe it is okay to be gay, they will think it's okay to be a pedophile or have sex with animals," he said. "It's a slippery slope."

He added, "This gay pride nonsense is an abomination. God does not want to see homosexuals in our parks."

The second annual Harlem Pride, which is geared toward people of color, will take place from June 24 to 26, the same weekend as the New York City Pride March from Midtown to the West Village. Events in Harlem include a barbecue, bowling and a dance party, with the picnic in Marcus Gavery Park being the only event scheduled for a public area.

Harlem Pride president Carmen Neely told the Daily News that she has no intention of altering the celebration in the park. Last year, she said she encountered opposition from attendees who mistakenly believed that Harlem Pride referred to pride in the neighborhood and its contributions to African-American history.

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