PEABODY — Queer people and many allies of the LGBTQ+ community joined together Wednesday morning outside City Hall to celebrate love, inclusion, and diversity with a ceremonial Pride flag raising to acknowledge June as Pride Month.

Mayor Ted Bettencourt kicked off the ceremony by thanking former Councilor-at-Large Tom Gould, as he was “instrumental” in creating this annual tradition 15 years ago.

He then passed the mic over to North Shore Pride Founder and President Hope Watt-Bucci, who spoke on the importance of uplifting and protecting queer people and culture.

“We thought last year it was very important to show your pride,” Watt-Bucci said. “This year, we find it being even more important to show your pride because of all that’s happening: The anti-trans legislation that’s occurring throughout the country; hate crimes are up… I ask you all during the month of June and throughout the year, please show your pride.”

She highlighted that even small acts can have big impacts, specifically mentioning how a little flag or a positive, queer-inclusive sign hanging in a window can show support for the LGBTQ+ community and ensure queer people know they are entering a safe space.

“Stay stronger together, and have pride forever,” Watt-Bucci concluded.

Bettencourt emphasized that Wednesday morning’s Pride flag raising was a “declaration of love and acceptance.”

“It serves as a beacon of hope for those who are struggling and a celebration of the beautiful diversity that makes our community whole,” he shared.

As the vibrant, rainbow flag rose into the sky, it offered more than a colorful display. It sent a message that queer residents not only have a place in this community, but are seen, valued, and welcome.

As the crowd dispersed, Watt-Bucci’s message lingered in the warm June air. Pride isn’t just a month-long celebration, but a year-round commitment to showing up, speaking out, and standing together.

Photo: Spenser Hasak | Purchase this photo

Peabody Mayor Ted Bettencourt speaks during the city's Pride Month celebration on Wednesday.

Photo: Spenser Hasak | Purchase this photo

Peabody Mayor Ted Bettencourt, right, presidents the Pride Month proclamation of Tom Gould, who was instrumental is starting the Pride flag raising as Peabody City Hall.

Photo: Spenser Hasak | Purchase this photo

Peabody Mayor Ted Bettencourt is joined by Rochelle Sport, Julie Curtis, Tom Gould, state Rep. Tom Walsh, and North Shore Pride Founder and President Hope Watt-Bucci raise the Pride flag at Peabody City Hall on Wednesday.

Photo: Spenser Hasak | Purchase this photo

Spectators film as the Pride flag is raised at Peabody City Hall on Wednesday.

Photo: Spenser Hasak | Purchase this photo

Peabody Mayor Ted Bettencourt is joined by Rochelle Sport, Julie Curtis, Tom Gould, state Rep. Tom Walsh, and North Shore Pride Founder and President Hope Watt-Bucci raise the Pride flag at Peabody City Hall on Wednesday.

Photo: Spenser Hasak | Purchase this photo

Rochelle Sport, from state Sen. Joan Lovely's office, applauds after the Pride flag was raised at Peabody City Hall on Wednesday.

Photo: Spenser Hasak | Purchase this photo

North Shore Pride Founder and President Hope Watt-Bucci wears a Pride shirt and pin.

Photo: Spenser Hasak | Purchase this photo

The Pride flag was raised at Peabody City Hall on Wednesday in celebration of Pride Month.

Photo: Spenser Hasak | Purchase this photo

The Pride flag flies over Peabody City Hall.

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