Southlake City Council Denies Permit for Church-Hosted Pride Event

The Southlake City Council in Texas voted unanimously on September 17, 2026, to deny a permit for the Pride Kel-So festival, which was scheduled to take place at St. Martin-in-the-Fields Episcopal Church on October 3. Although the city’s Planning and Zoning Commission had previously recommended the permit for approval, the council rejected the request following public testimony from local residents.

Associate Pastor Ellen Singer stated that the church intended to host the event as part of its mission to welcome all neighbors, noting that the congregation frequently opens its campus to various community groups. She described the 2025 iteration of the festival as a successful gathering and expressed disappointment in the council's decision.

Opponents of the permit, including resident Paul Segal, argued that the previous year’s event caused community tension and raised concerns regarding the inclusion of drag performers. Critics suggested that the festival had become a source of public upheaval, while supporters maintained that the church’s actions were consistent with its commitment to community outreach.