In a story on NBC4 Washington, all public high school marching bands in the Washington, D.C. area confirmed that they did not apply to participate in the 2017 Presidential Inauguration Parade of Donald Trump. At least one DC-area public high school band has performed in the parade for the last five inaugurations.
Howard University, a Historically Black College and University located in DC, also did not apply, stating low membership and lack of funds.
All the bands contacted mentioned the cost or low membership, but none actually cited political beliefs or fear of safety as reasons for skipping the parade. Parade applications were due on December 5th after the application period was initially extended by a week. The full list has not been announced.
Other bands that did not apply include: all groups in the districts of Prince George, Arlington, and Fairfax, University of Maryland-College Park, University of the District of Columbia, Bowie State University, and the Lesbian and Gay Band Association.
Columbus (Ind.) North High School, alma mater of Vice President-elect Mike Pence, announced that their marching band has been invited to participate. They are currently raising funds to make the trip, according to Fox 59.
Stay tuned to Halftime Magazine for more inauguration parade coverage in the coming months.
