Austin Pride meets with Palestinian advocates, commits to steps forward

AUSTIN (KXAN) — Austin Pride said Saturday evening that it met with community leaders to discuss recent controversy over how it selects sponsors and allegations that it banned the Palestinian flag and pro-Palestinian symbols, according to a social media post.

In that post, Austin Pride said it met with leaders from the Austin For Palestine Coalition, Jewish Voices for Peace and other local community leaders.

"We acknowledge that we made a mistake and want to clarify that symbols of Palestine or pro-Palestinian liberation are not antisemitic or anti-Jewish," the post reads. "We deeply regret how we handled this situation and sincerely apologize for the harm caused. We are saddened by the spread of anti-Palestinian rhetoric that has impacted queer, Palestinian, Arab, Muslim, Jewish and other communities."

Austin Against Apartheid, one of the organizations represented at the meeting, issued a statement Saturday evening. That post thanked Austin Pride, and was shared by the Austin For Palestine Coalition and Austin with Palestine.

"After the meeting, Austin Pride has committed to evaluating its sponsors going forward 'based on BDS criteria' and to not working with the Anti-Defamation League. Thank you [Austin Pride] and welcome to the Apartheid-Free community!" the post reads.

BDS, or Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions, is a political campaign organized by Palestinian activists. Pro-Israel groups have called the global campaign anti Semitic. Texas law prevents state and local governments from providing funding or contracting with businesses that "boycott Israel."

Austin Pride said it will evaluate future sponsors of the event "based on BDS criteria," and that arms makers and "unethical corporations" will not be allowed to sponsor.

"We hope that this weekend and in the future, Austin Pride can be a space where everyone is welcome. We look forward to seeing you there!" concludes Austin Pride's statement.