Associated Press - A gay rights advocacy group is pushing for gay people to be allowed to march ``openly and honestly'' in Boston's St. Patrick's Day parade.

On Saturday, MassEquality Executive Director Kara Coredini said a group of gay military veterans would be allowed to march under its banner as part of a tentative deal with parade organizers.

But the deal hasn't been finalized. Coredini said Monday the group wants the marchers to be able to identify themselves as members of the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender community.

Coredini says MassEquality members met with Boston Mayor Martin Walsh, Congressman Stephen Lynch and the parade organizer Sunday to discuss concerns.

Meanwhile, the Immaculate Heart of Mary School, near Worcester, says its band will not march in this year's parade because of the participation of MassEquality.

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