Amherst’s First Pride Parade and Celebration Planned for June 22

Source: amherstma.gov

The Town of Amherst, dedicated Amherst Pride Volunteers, and the Downtown Amherst Business Improvement District announce the first-ever Amherst Pride, a vibrant celebration of the LGBTQ+ community and allies. 

Set to take place on Sunday, June 22 from 12:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m., the event will feature a festive parade, an empowering rally, and a community resource fair. Interested parade participants, resources, and vendors are invited to register online by Friday, June 13.  

This inaugural Amherst Pride aims to celebrate the diversity and resilience of the LGBTQ+ community, promote visibility, provide valuable resources, and offer support. It’s a day for everyone to come together, celebrate love, acknowledge identity, and strengthen the bonds of our community. 

Event Highlights 

• Parade: Beginning at 12:00 p.m at the Amherst-Pelham Regional High School (21 Mattoon St), the parade will wind its way through downtown ending at the Amherst Town Common. Parade participants are invited to a sign making session at 11:00 a.m.. Supplies will be provided.
  
• Rally & Celebration: Following the parade, a celebration including a rally and resource fair will take place from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. on the Amherst Town Common. Speakers, community leaders, and performances will honor LGBTQ+ voices and experiences. Attendees will be able to connect with local organizations and businesses offering support, services, and information. 

Call for Participants, Resources, and Vendors 
Individuals, groups, businesses, and organizations are invited to be a part of this historic event. The deadline to register to participate in the parade, have a resource table, or be a vendor is Friday, June 13. Register online using this form or access it at amherstma.gov/pride. 

• Parade Participants: Join the parade and show your pride! All community members are invited to participate, including organizations, businesses, families, neighborhood associations, student clubs, religious communities, and any small groups or individuals eager to celebrate pride.
  
• Resources: Host a resource table! Local organizations and businesses are encouraged to participate in the event by sharing information about resources relevant to the LGBTQ+ community and allies. 
  
• Vendors: Promote your business! This is a great opportunity for local businesses and artisans to showcase their goods and services.

“Bringing Amherst Pride to life this year feels especially meaningful in light of the challenging times we’re all facing,” said Amherst Pride Volunteer Jan Eidelson. “We’re coming together to proudly celebrate diversity and love. Our community gives me hope, and I want to share that hope and warmth with all. Join us as we come together in unity, solidarity, and joy.” 

District 2 Councilor Pat De Angelis added, “On June 28th, 1969, New York City police raided the Stonewall Inn, a gay club located in Greenwich Village, which sparked a riot. This led to six days of protests and violent clashes with law enforcement known as the Stonewall Riots, which later served as the catalyst for the LGBTQ+ rights movement. Fifty-six years later on June 22, 2025, Amherst will hold its first Pride Parade and Celebration honoring the lives of our LGBTQ+ community members and the contributions they have made to our Town. Let’s hold each other in joy and love while we march together.” 

This event is hosted by Amherst Pride Volunteers, the Town of Amherst Department of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, and the Amherst Business Improvement District. 

For more information about Amherst Pride visit www.amherstma.gov/pride or contact Amherst Pride Volunteers at amherstmapride@gmail.com.