BAY WINDOWS: Politicians show their Pride

By Laura Kiritsy | June 18, 2008

There were plenty of pols and would-be pols that marched in the June 14 Boston Pride Parade and we’re going to name names in a second, at the risk of incurring the wrath of some politico that we failed to note. Apologies in advance; there’s a good chance we got distracted by that seven-foot green drag queen with the giant fern on her head.

Chang-Diaz hoofs it in heels

Speaking of tough challengers, Sonia Chang-Diaz, Wilkerson’s primary foe, proved her mettle by walking the entire parade route in her high heels, which put her in good company with those sturdy drag queens. "I have good sensible shoes for canvassing every day, so today I put on my fancy shoes for Pride," said Chang-Diaz as she and her contingent landed on City Hall Plaza. Among those accompanying Chang-Diaz was supporter Sheryl McCloud of the South End, who at first tried to beg off answering a few questions about her chosen candidate by pleading media shyness, but after a little coaxing she launched into a testimonial worthy of a campaign commercial.

"Not to be negative, but I feel that it’s time for change, and it’s not only time for change, it’s time for a candidate that really ... brings energy and youth to the campaign," said McCloud. "And that is definitely Sonia. She’s experienced, she’s savvy, people love her and I really feel she represents the community." McCloud went on to note that until Chang-Diaz came along, she had never before worked for a candidate, donated money to a campaign or marched in a parade -- ever.

So how did it feel to be marching amongst the gays? "I felt the love they had for her," McCloud replied, as we started to feel as though we had been hustled. "If you smiled at Sonia and waved," she enthused, "vote for her!"

Full text article available at: http://www.baywindows.com/index.php?ch=columnists&sc=pressing_the_flesh&...

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