Radio host says station excluded from LGBT Pride Celebration

HOUSTON (KTRK) -- A KRBE radio host is upset, saying his station is being excluded from Houston's pride festival.

"This year, they have an exclusivity contract with just one radio company," said Kevin England, "Special K" on the "Roula and Ryan Show." "It's like we've been working with them for so long. We've been champions of equality and now, 'No, no, no, you can't do that.'"

England says KRBE has been a sponsor since the festival started, more than 35 years ago. This year, for the first time, KRBE was not invited to sponsor the festival. Instead, another station has been given exclusive access.

KRBE says it has been offered a spot in the parade at a $1000.00 cost. England says there's no budget for that. The station has participated for free for years.

"I completely understand that it is a business decision and that's what it's all about anymore, the bottom line," England said. "But this endeavor, equality, LGBT rights, this is a time for everyone to get behind it."

In response, Pride Houston's CEO and President, Frankie Quijano, provided this statement:

register.pridehouston.org



Unfortunately Pride's vendors that clean up the streets, provide the fencing, tents, tables, chairs, signage, bleachers, advertising, sound, lighting, street closures and medical services do not provide their services for free or on a volunteer basis so fees are assessed to make up the cost of those vendors. Pride Houston is a 100% volunteer run organization and all monies gathered go toward paying vendors, various permit/administration fees and help keep the Pride Festival free so that all can enjoy. Happy Pride Month.

Houston's LGBT Pride Festival and Parade will take place on June 28 from 1 to 7pm. There are more details on the celebration's official website.