Amaechi named
grand marshal of L.A. pride parade

Out former NBA player John Amaechi has been named grand marshal of the Los Angeles pride parade, which will take place June 10 in in West Hollywood, reports NBC4.tv. "I am honored to be the grand marshal at this year's pride...celebrating equality for each of us," said Amaechi.

Amaechi recently published his autobiography, Man in the Middle, in which he chronicles a life of hiding his sexuality, especially as an NBA player. He was profiled in the March 13 issue of The Advocate. Amaechi is the first NBA player to come out.

"We are inspired by Amaechi's courage and convictions," said Rodney Scott, president of Christopher Street West, the group that organizes the pride event in Los Angeles. "Despite personal risk he opened himself up to the world and showed his authentic self."

Joan Jett and American Idol contestant Frenchie Davis are among the stars scheduled to perform during the weekend-long celebration. The parade route follows Santa Monica Boulevard from Crescent Heights Boulevard to Robertson Boulevard. (The Advocate)