The organisers of US Thanksgiving Day celebration, the Macy’s Parade, have removed rock and roll legend Joan Jett from the festivities after community uproar over the singer’s vegetarianism and pro-animal rights stance. Jett was to appear on a float representing the state of South Dakota.
South Dakotan farmers and ranchers were vocal about their concern regarding the placing of Jett on a float paid for by the state, seeing as the singer is a known supporter of animal rights group PETA who promote vegetarianism and criticise the livestock industry.
Local government officials and prominent members of the agriculture community likewise criticised the plans, saying they did not approve of who was to appear on the float meant to represent their state and the Mount Rushmore National Memorial, and that her views are detrimental to the state.
Macy’s bosses have decided to move Jett from the South Dakota tourism float to an as-yet unannounced float, with Macy’s Parade spokesman Orlando Veras saying:
“The Parade has never taken on, promoted or otherwise engaged in social commentary, political debate, or other forms of advocacy, no matter how worthy. MACy’s intention is only to provide a range of entertaining elements and performers free of endorsements or agendas.”
The annual event will take place later this month on 28th November, with another celebrity set to take the I Love Rock ‘n’ Roll singer’s spot on the float.
(Via NY Daily News)
