The Independence Day Parade in Boise is banning the open carry of firearms for individuals participating in the parade, a decision made by the privately run 4th of July Celebration Committee Inc., not the City of Boise. Because the parade is operated by a private nonprofit rather than a government entity, the restriction does not violate Idaho’s firearm preemption law.

For spectators watching the parade, the open‑carry restriction does not apply. And for those marching or riding in the parade, concealed carry remains fully allowed. In other words, the committee is targeting the visible exercise of the right to keep and bear arms.

It’s hard to ignore the irony. On a holiday celebrating America’s fight for independence, a fight won with firearms, not polite handshakes, parade organizers have decided that openly carrying a firearm is somehow incompatible with a “community gathering.” Independence Day is literally the commemoration of armed citizens standing up to government power. Yet the committee appears more concerned with appeasing those who are uncomfortable with firearms than honoring the historical reality of the holiday.

Participants who wish to enter a float must sign an agreement to follow all parade rules, including the committee’s firearm policy. The rule posted on the parade’s website states:

“All parade entries are strongly encouraged to review and are required to follow Idaho State Statute Title 18… Additionally, in the spirit of a community gathering open carry of firearms is not permitted. Any violation… will void the entry’s participation… and at the discretion of the organizer will not be allowed to participate in subsequent parades. The decision of the parade organizer or its representatives is final.”

The phrase “in the spirit of a community gathering” raises an obvious question: Are we not gathering to celebrate the very independence secured by armed citizens? The committee’s reasoning seems far less about community and far more about pacifying those who dislike firearms, or dislike the country’s founding principles altogether.

Idahoans should be able to celebrate Independence Day without being told that exercising their rights is somehow inappropriate for the occasion.

For a full list of events, businesses, organizations, candidates, and politicians who are anti-gun or have anti-gun positions, go to IdahoAntiGun.com to learn more.