Second Gay Rights Group Approved To March In Boston St. Patrick's Day Parade

BOSTON (CBS) - Most of the snow has been taken care of along the South Boston St. Patrick's Day parade route. Now most of the controversy has been taken care of as well.

Two gay rights organizations have received letters of acceptance to march. "We think it's an historic moment to finally have full inclusivity and visibility in the South Boston parade," said Sylvain Bruni, president of Boston Pride.

Keller @ Large: Symbols Of Progress In Southie

Outvets, a group of gay military veterans has also been welcomed by organizers. Parade organizers say they've agreed to abide by the rules including no political statements.

"Any group that's been refused in the past, it's been done because they wouldn't abide by the code of conduct," said Brian Mahoney who heads the South Boston Allied War Veterans Council which runs the parade. The Council went all the way to the U.S. Supreme Court in 1995 to protect its right to include or deny any group, and the parade became a gay rights battleground.

Last year Boston Mayor Marty Walsh tried to broker an agreement and it came close. "This night last year negotiations were over a sign. We've come a long way and I'm grateful we've moved forward," said Walsh.

He'll be the first Boston Mayor in 20 years to march. Republican Governor Charlie Baker and first-term Democratic U.S. Rep. Seth Moulton will also join the event.

Boston Pride says they have no political agenda. "Our job is to ensure space to go and celebrate whether Irish, veterans, or allies of us and be in there to celebrate without any issues," Bruni said.

WBZ NewsRadio 1030's Lana Jones reports