Man Spotted in Cleveland Browns Jersey Swears He’s Not Part of Pittsburgh Pride Parade

A man wearing a Cleveland Browns jersey caused a stir at the Pittsburgh Pride Parade when he was mistaken for a participant in the annual celebration of the LGBTQ+ community.

Danny Freedman, a 34-year-old from Cleveland, was spotted among the rainbow flags and glitter-dusted revelers on Liberty Avenue, adamantly claiming he was just trying to get to a nearby sports bar.

Freedman, who was in Pittsburgh visiting family, said he had no idea the parade was happening. He was wearing his cherished Browns jersey, unaware that some in the LGBTQ+ community have recently embraced the team’s logo as a symbol of solidarity.

“I’m just here for wings and a beer,” Freedman told a group of parade-goers who offered him a rainbow lei. “I love my team, but I didn’t sign up for this.”

The mix-up drew attention from parade organizers, who noted the Browns’ unexpected cultural crossover. The team’s logo was featured on several floats, with one banner reading “Browns Pride: We Keep Fighting.”

Pittsburgh Pride, which draws nearly 200,000 attendees, has faced challenges this year due to reduced corporate sponsorship amid federal policy shifts, making grassroots symbols like the Browns’ logo more prominent.

“Football and identity politics don’t usually mix, but here we are,” said parade volunteer Jenna Michaels. “The Browns are our vibe now.”

Freedman’s protests went largely unheard as he was swept into a crowd chanting for equality and waving Progress Pride flags.

He eventually ducked into an alley to avoid being photographed with a drag queen dressed as a cheerleader.

The Browns, meanwhile, have not commented on their newfound status, though team merchandise was spotted at several vendor stalls along the parade route.

One attendee, sporting a Browns cap adorned with glitter, called the mix-up a “beautiful accident” that highlighted the event’s inclusive spirit.

“It’s not about the jersey; it’s about being here,” said local activist Marcus Tate. “Danny’s one of us now, whether he likes it or not.”

Freedman, for his part, plans to stick to watching games at home next time he visits Pittsburgh.

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