Kelso Civic Week floats spark complaints from residents
Two Kelso Civic Week fancy dress entries have sparked complaints from residents over displays they claim featured racial stereotypes, political violence and religious insults at a community celebration.
The Southern Reporter has received two complaints about floats which took part in this year’s Civic Week fancy dress parade.
The concerns centre on the themes used in the entries, with residents questioning whether some of the content was appropriate for a family event designed to celebrate the town and bring people together.
One complaint relates to a float featuring a portrayal of US President Donald Trump, immigration enforcement officers and stereotypical depictions of Mexican people.
The complainant said: “Community events like these should celebrate our town, bring people together, and create an atmosphere where everyone feels welcome. Sadly, I felt that some aspects of this year’s celebrations fell far short of those ideals.
“One float combined a portrayal of the attempted assassination of Donald Trump with a depiction of stereotypical Mexican people running from ICE agents. Regardless of anyone’s political views, I believe making light of political violence is inappropriate for a public event attended by families and children.
“Equally, using racial and cultural stereotypes as part of the entertainment is offensive and sends the wrong message about the kind of community Kelso strives to be.”
The resident added: “What troubled me most was that the float appeared to make humour out of issues that have caused real suffering to many people.
“Scotland is home to people from many different backgrounds, including those who have immigrated here to build their lives. Events such as this should make everyone feel included, not leave people feeling singled out or unwelcome because of their nationality or ethnicity.”
The complaint also raised concerns about another float which altered the lyrics of Sweet Caroline to include a derogatory phrase about the Pope.
The resident said: “Whether or not someone is religious, mocking a faith or its leader in this way has no place at a community celebration that should be welcoming to everyone.”
They added: “Kelso has a proud reputation as a friendly and welcoming town. Our festivals should reflect those values by celebrating creativity, humour and community spirit without resorting to political violence, racial stereotypes or insults towards religious groups.”
The resident said they hoped the concerns would encourage organisers and participants to reflect on the standards expected at future events.
They said: “We should be setting an example that makes everyone – whether they have lived here all their lives or have recently made Kelso their home – feel respected, included and proud to be part of our town.”
The annual Civic Week celebrations are a major fixture in the town’s calendar, with the fancy dress parade attracting large crowds.
Kelso Civic Week Committee has been approached for comment.