By Luana Rocha and Emma Barhydt
June marks Pride Month, a time when communities nationwide unite in celebration, solidarity, and advocacy for LGBTQ+ rights. Amid vibrant rainbow flags and celebratory events, Pride Month honors the resilience of LGBTQ+ individuals who have historically endured significant discrimination and injustice.
The origins of Pride Month trace back to the Stonewall uprising of June 28, 1969, when patrons of the Stonewall Inn in New York City bravely resisted a police raid. This watershed moment ignited a nationwide movement that led to the creation of annual Pride celebrations, symbols of both protest and pride.
On Sunday, June 1 at Town Hall Greenwich continued this legacy with its annual Pride celebration. The day featured a robust program, highlighting the town’s commitment to equality, inclusion, and allyship.
Town leadership, religious leaders, and elected officials came together and joined the LGBTQ+ people, family, and allies of the community to honor the beginning of Pride month through a formal program. Remarks made by First Selectman Fred Camillo, Selectwoman Lauren Rabin, Selectperson Janet Stone McGuigan, State Representatives Steve Meskers and Hector Arzeno all expressed their support and determination to make the community feel safe and welcomed.
A highlight of the afternoon was the formal reading of the official Pride Month proclamation, immediately followed by the ceremonial raising of the Progress Pride flag—a powerful emblem representing diversity, progress, and unity.
Beyond the official program, the giggles of children permeated the air, rainbow-painted faces beaming with smiles, as flags were passed around—even outside organizations and four-legged friends came to show their support. Many outside organizations were also present to show their support.
Holly Izant-McSharry, a fellow parent and ally of the community, who attended, expressed how “We want to make sure that these events keep happening so that all kids growing up will know that they’re respected and valued.” These celebrations help ensure that LGBTQ+ individuals can live openly and safely, fostering greater understanding and acceptance among community members who may previously have had limited exposure to LGBTQ+ perspectives. Izant-McSharry further noted, “Every year it gets bigger and bigger, and people become more accepting. And even friends of mine that maybe twenty years ago wouldn’t have been as accepting are now.”
Greenwich has become an open space that allows people to feel a sense of love, and by hosting events where those in power speak and show support, it radiates a feeling of reassurance and security. As June passes, we must remember, as a community, that pride means much more than just rainbows; it means support and acceptance.
