ACLU Says You Can’t Censor Mardi Gras Float Music

Last week the St. Martinville City Council said vulgar rap music would not be allowed on Mardi Gras floats in this Sunday's parade. This in an effort to make the parade more family friendly. The Council is running into some opposition.

According to Louisiana ACLU Executive Director Marjorie Esman,

Communities need to remember that just because you don't like something doesn't mean you can ban it.

Esman also said you can't constitutionally enforce an unclear restriction such as, no vulgar rap music during a parade.

St. Martinville Chief of Police Calder Hebert said,

We're not focusing on any rap music only on music that is not appropriate for the family. We're only concerned for the safety for those attending the parade Sunday.

Calder went on to say there are no plans to arrest anyone just for the type of music they're playing on their float.