Kyle Richards has defended her sister Kathy Hilton after she exited her role as grand marshal of the West Hollywood Pride Parade.
Kyle Richards has defended Kathy Hilton
The 67-year-old socialite had previously taken on the duty with her daughter Paris Hilton in 2005 and had been due to do so again this year, but recently stepped down following a backlash from the LGBTQ+ community because Kathy and her husband Rick Hilton have previously socialised with US President Donald Trump and his wife Milania.
And now Kyle has praised Kathy for stepping down in a bid to not be a “distraction” to the celebrations.
Kyle wrote on her Instagram Story: “My sister Kathy has always been a supporter of the LGBTQIA+ community and will continue to be.
“As far as ‘MAGA ties’, just because you are acquainted with or associated with or associated with someone in the past or present, does not mean you share their political views.
“The WeHo Pride Parade is a happy celebratory day. I respect my sister’s decision for not wanting to be a distraction on a day that belongs to the LGBTQIA+ community. Happy Pride!”
Following the backlash, Kathy released a statement explaining she was no longer going to be marshalling the event.
She said: “I am honoured to have been considered for this recognition and appreciative of the support I have received from members of the community throughout the years.
“My reason for wanting to be involved in this year’s WeHo Pride weekend was simple: to celebrate, support, and share in the joy of a community that means a great deal to so many people. Pride is, and always will be, about celebrating and uplifting LGBTQ+ voices, experiences, and achievements.
“I respect the thoughtful conversations that have taken place and remain deeply committed to supporting LGBTQ+ causes and visibility, including through my participation in GLAAD initiatives and events, and longstanding support of organisations such as the Elton John AIDS Foundation, the Elizabeth Taylor AIDS Foundation since its inception, Dr. Mathilde Krim, God’s Love We Deliver, and Project Angel Food.
“My support for the community and WeHo Pride is unwavering. This monumentally important event has always had a special place in my heart, and I will always cherish the experience I had acting as Grand Marshal of the LA Pride parade with my daughter in 2005. Thank you to everyone who works so hard to make it happen, and I wish the community nothing but love, joy, and a fantastic WeHo Pride weekend.”
The City of West Hollywood had called Kathy “a vocal and visible supporter of the community” who uses her “platform to champion LGBTQ+ rights” upon announcing her role in the parade.
However, after Kathy’s statement, they released one of their own, thanking Kathy for her “grace and her continued support of the LGBTQ+ community”.
They added: “Pride has always been strongest when it genuinely reflects the community. WeHo Pride is strengthened by open dialogue, mutual respect, and a shared commitment to inclusion.
“The City of West Hollywood remains dedicated to ensuring that WeHo Pride continues to be a joyful celebration rooted in visibility, belonging, and respect, and welcomes ongoing community conversations that help it to evolve while honouring its history and purpose.
“The WeHo Pride Parade is a celebration of community, and we are proud to welcome nearly 120 parade entries this year. We look forward to a parade and weekend that honours the spirit and extraordinary contributions of the LGBTQ+ community.”
