Boston kicks off Pride month with City Hall event

BOSTON — The City of Boston kicked off National LGBTQ+ Pride Month at City Hall Thursday, marking the beginning of four weeks of celebrations.

Mayor Michelle Wu announced a proclamation declaring June the official Pride month for the city, telling those in attendance the month is about even more than joy.

“It is an opportunity. A chance to reflect on and honor the rich revolutionary history of Pride in Massachusetts and in Boston,” Wu said. “It’s a reminder that our work is not done. Until we have achieved equity for all, our work continues. That’s the commitment we have renewed today not just for the month of June but for the whole year.”

An LGBTQ+ flag was raised, several performers took the stage, and a photography installation, Portraits of Pride, was unveiled, highlighting local LGBTQ+ leaders. Among those leaders is Mass. Gov. Maura Healey, the first openly gay governor elected in the country.

Speaking on the plaza Thursday, Healey credited the LBGTQ leaders who paved the way for her historic role.

“Behind those portraits are so many heroes, and I just want to say humbly, I am grateful to all the people who made it possible what I am able to do today,” an emotional Healey said. “Everyone is welcome here in Massachusetts, everyone is seen in Massachusetts, everyone is heard in Massachusetts, everyone is respected in Massachusetts, everyone is loved in Massachusetts.”

Healey leads a state that was the first in the nation to legalize gay marriage. That history was yet another thing for those at city hall to take pride in.

“It’s so important for us, especially when we’ve seen 650 laws recently have gone against LGBT people in other states,” said Evan Dooley. “We spend a lot of the time in the closet, and this [event] is a way to show we have pride in ourselves, and we’re visible, and we’re here.”

“Events like this to show the world that you can have love and diversity is a beautiful thing,” added Dooley’s friend, Chelsea Page Moses.

City Hall was lit up in rainbow colors to celebrate Pride Thursday night. The lights will remain throughout most of the month.

Portraits of Pride will remain on the plaza for all of June.

This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available.

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