Confrontation Erupts at 'Hetero Awesome Fest' in Boise

BOISE, Idaho – A minor confrontation occurred at the 'Hetero Awesome Fest' held in Cecil D. Andrus Park, Boise, from June 20-21. An individual, later identified as a protester, took the stage and began singing a pro-LGBTQ+ song before being removed from the event. Mark Fitzpatrick, owner of the Old State Saloon and organizer of the festival, intervened, taking the microphone from the individual after approximately one minute of singing. Security officers subsequently escorted the man from the event. Fitzpatrick stated, "He sang a song with lyrics that go against our values. I took the microphone from him, and he and his friends were told to leave. This is yet another example of lies and deceptions from the Pride community. That’s what they are: liars and deceivers. They do it to victimize children. It’s pathetic and evil." The 'Hetero Awesome Fest' was organized by Heterosexual Awesomeness Inc., a nonprofit founded by Fitzpatrick, and was scheduled during June, traditionally Pride Month. Boise’s official Pride celebration was moved to September this year due to the COVID-19 pandemic.