Rep. Linda Dorcena Forry issued the following statement Friday:

"I am pleased to join fellow candidate Maureen Dahill in calling upon parade organizers to accept the application of gay and lesbian groups to have an opportunity to march in this year's Evacuation Day/St. Patrick's Day parade in South Boston. For too long, our sisters and brothers and friends in the LGBT community have been told they are not welcome to join in the celebration. It is about time that all people are welcome. South Boston is a welcoming and vibrant community. I am confident that the great majority of residents in the neighborhood and throughout the First Suffolk District will support this inclusionary step. I intend to proudly march in this year's parade with a wide range of my supporters— including the LGBT community. It is time for us to put the focus of this day where it belongs: On the celebration of culture and neighborhood that reflects the true spirit of Boston."

The campaign issued a clarification to the above statement:

"I just wanted to clarify because a few people have asked: As an elected official for the past 8 years, although I attend the St. Patrick's Day breakfast, I have not participated in the parade because it has not been inclusive. I believe this year that the parade committee will do the right thing and include all groups who are part of the diverse community that we value so much in our city. If that happens, I will proudly join and march. And I appreciate all who join with me in these efforts to increase tolerance and inclusion in our public life."