By Riley Fontana
Hometown Weekly Reporter
On Sunday, June 18th, 2023 Needham hosted its second annual pride event “Needham Has Pride”. The event was co-hosted by First Parish in Needham and The Congregational Church of Needham and the day was filled with love and color.
The event began in the grass of the First Parish in Needham, where everyone gathered to get pronoun stickers, flags to represent their respective identities, and awaited to hear from local speakers. Reverends Catie Scudera of the Parish and John Gage of the Congregation, lead the crowd in chants and affirmations before offering glitter blessings. At the same time, local drag performer Just JP shared their personal journey of self-discovery. A local Needham parent also shared her story of raising two trans daughters, before the town board select members Heidi Frail and Cathy Dowd shared their admiration for the event and the town.
After all of the speakers had shared their pieces, a march began down Great Plain Ave. Support was shown through honks and shouts out of passing cars as the group made their way to the Congregational Church of Needham where there was even more celebration. On the lawn of the Congregation was bracelet making, color sheets, bubbles and even more pride. There was a table with information about OUT MetroWest, an organization that focuses on supporting LGBTQ+ youth which the churches spoke very highly of.
The event took all precautions that may have been needed, including a safety team of church members and volunteers. This group was ready and willing to stand in between the event attendees and any possible protestors. Thankfully this group wasn’t needed and were able to join in on the fun themselves.
“We talked about how there might be protestors,” said Sara Elizabeth Dyer-Santa Cruz, the parish’s Director of Lifespan and Religious Exploration, about telling the youth groups about the event. “The kids were so excited to make barriers to keep people safe. It’s remarkable to teach kids about struggle but from a place of love and hope.”
The event welcomes everyone with open arms, and they are already looking forward to next year's event.
