Skip to Content

Ball for 1st Black St. Pete mayor canceled over circus theme

KIFI

ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. (AP) — A ball planned for the first Black mayor of St. Petersburg, Florida, has been canceled amid concerns its circus theme was inappropriate in the once-segregated city. The Junior League of St. Petersburg has thrown such balls since 2006. But the Tampa Bay Times reported Thursday that it scrapped the event after Mayor-elect Ken Welch declined to attend. The theme of the ball was “Under the Big Top” with promotional materials featuring a circus tent and a black pelican with a top hat. Black community leaders pointed out that Blacks were once barred from attending the circus in St. Petersburg. Welch, who takes office Jan. 6, called it a teachable moment for racial inclusion.

Article Topic Follows: AP National

Jump to comments ↓

Author Profile Photo

Associated Press

BE PART OF THE CONVERSATION

KIFI Local News 8 is committed to providing a forum for civil and constructive conversation.

Please keep your comments respectful and relevant. You can review our Community Guidelines by clicking here

If you would like to share a story idea, please submit it here.

Skip to content