The fourth annual Fairhaven's Got Pride is open to all on Sunday. Here's what to expect.
FAIRHAVEN -- On Sunday, June 9, Fairhaven will host its fourth annual Fairhaven’s Got Pride event.
Starting at 10 a.m. on the lawn of Fairhaven Town Hall, and continuing on Center Street (between Town Hall and the Millicent Library) from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., the event will showcase the town’s support and celebration of the local LGBTQ+ community.
“Whether you are part of the LGBTQ+ community, an ally, or just curious about what all the rainbows are about, you’re welcome to join," said Traci Welch, events consultant for Fairhaven’s Got Pride.
What to expect at Fairhaven Pride
The event will include entertainment, guest speakers, vendor and informational booths, opportunities for sharing stories and more.
Parking is free in Fairhaven and located around the area, specifically on William and Union Street.
Fairhaven’s Got Pride is not just a celebration, but also serves as a platform for education, said Welch. It aims to raise awareness about LGBTQ+ history, struggles, and achievements and promote a culture of acceptance and love.
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Unfortunately, even in today’s society, prejudice, hatred and lack of acceptance toward the LGBTQ+ community still exist, according to Welch. She said celebrating Pride challenges the harmful stereotypes and reminds people of the damaging effects of homophobia.
“Pride events serve as platforms for education. They raise awareness about LGBTQ+ history, struggles, and achievements. Education helps combat ignorance and fosters empathy, promoting a more inclusive world,” Welch added.
The origin of Fairhaven Got Pride
The Pride celebration in Fairhaven has become a major event since its inception in June 2021, after the Fairhaven Board of Selectmen denied a request to fly the Pride Flag. The vote was 2-1 against.
In response, an anonymous donor decorated the town’s crosswalk with rainbow chalk and 100 miniature Pride flags were placed around the perimeter of Town Hall in protest.
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In 2022, the Fairhaven Board of Selectmen unanimously voted to fly the Pride Flag for the first two weeks of June, with the final two weeks reserved for the town’s homecoming flag.
As part of the lead-up to Fairhaven’s Got Pride, on Saturday, June 8, at 6 p.m. there will also be a community event where people can come together to decorate a rainbow crosswalk. Meet at the crosswalk between the town hall and the Millicent Library on Center Street.
Standard-Times staff writer Seth Chitwood can be reached at [email protected]. Follow him on twitter: @ChitwoodReports.Support local journalism by purchasing a digital or print subscription to The Standard-Times today.
This article originally appeared on Standard-Times: Fairhaven's Got Pride set for June 9 at Lawn of Fairhaven Town Hall