Kyle Richards has issued a public defense of her sister Kathy Hilton following controversy that led Hilton to withdraw from her role as grand marshal of the West Hollywood Pride Parade. The dispute has highlighted ongoing tensions within the LGBTQIA+ community regarding political associations and allyship.
Richards, 57, posted a statement via her Instagram Story on Friday, June 5, addressing the backlash her sister faced from members of the LGBTQIA+ community. The criticism primarily focused on Hilton's past social connections to President Donald Trump and his family.
In her defense, Richards emphasized that personal associations do not necessarily reflect shared political beliefs. She wrote that her sister "has always been a supporter of the LGBTQIA+ community and will continue to be," according to Us Weekly. Richards further stated that "just because you are acquainted with or associated with or associated with someone in the past or present, does not mean you share their political views."
The controversy stems from Hilton's documented past socialization with President Donald Trump, 79, and his family. Kathy Hilton and her husband, Rick Hilton, were known to have moved in similar social circles as the Trumps. However, Hilton has never publicly disclosed her voting record or explicitly stated support for Trump's political campaigns.
Hilton, 67, announced her decision to step down from the parade on Wednesday, June 3. In a lengthy statement, she expressed appreciation for the opportunity while acknowledging the community's concerns. She stated that she was "honored to have been considered for this recognition and appreciative of the support I have received from members of the community throughout the years," as reported by Us Weekly.
Hilton emphasized that her motivation for participating was purely celebratory. She explained that her "reason for wanting to be involved in this year's WeHo Pride weekend was simple: to celebrate, support, and share in the joy of a community that means a great deal to so many people," according to Us Weekly.
In her statement, Hilton detailed her longstanding support for LGBTQ+ causes, citing her involvement with numerous organizations. She referenced her participation in GLAAD initiatives and events, as well as her support for the Elton John AIDS Foundation, the Elizabeth Taylor AIDS Foundation since its inception, Dr. Mathilde Krim, God's Love We Deliver, and Project Angel Food.
Hilton also noted her personal history with Pride events, mentioning that she previously served as Grand Marshal of the LA Pride parade with her daughter in 2005. She described the West Hollywood Pride event as having "always had a special place in my heart," according to Us Weekly.
Richards concluded her Instagram post by expressing respect for her sister's decision to withdraw, framing it as an effort to avoid becoming a distraction. She wrote that she respects Hilton's "decision for not wanting to be a distraction on a day that belongs to the LGBTQIA+ community," as reported by Us Weekly. Richards ended her statement with "Happy Pride!"
The incident reflects broader debates within activist communities about the standards for allyship and whether past associations should disqualify individuals from public roles in social justice events. The West Hollywood Pride Parade is scheduled to proceed with its annual celebration, though organizers have not yet announced a replacement grand marshal.