Seekonk Celebrates LGBTQ Pride

The colors of the rainbow were a major part of Saturday’s first ever LGBTQ Pride celebration held on the campground behind the Newman YMCA.

The afternoon event was organized by Love Lives in Seekonk and showcased vendors from many local businesses and community organizations including Haus of Codec, Southcoast County Legal Services, and Community Autism Resources.

“We want to send out the message that there’s pride in Seekonk and that everyone should be accepted and loved for who they are, regardless of their gender identity or sexuality,” said LLIS President Kris Lyons. “They matter to us and in a world with a lot of hate, we want to send a message of love.”

Attendees could purchase clothing, jewelry, wood sculptures, paintings, and rainbow-colored merchandise.

The live entertainment included School of Rock Seekonk, East End Theatre and Performing Arts, Bill Harley, New England Witches Guild, and Trishula Dance Company.

There were also children’s activities and games.

Lyons was very pleased with the support of the sponsors, which included Slo Spa and Salon, Goldfish Swim School, Coastal One Credit Union, Feast and Fettle, Sensata Technologies, Peak Pediatric Care, The Gordon School, The Old Grist Mill Tavern, and The Davis Family.

“We are so thrilled that the community really stepped up to support us,” Lyons said. “It’s a great turnout and we’re happy the weather is holding out for us.”

Although there has been some negative attitudes directed toward the LGBTQ community, Lyons notes the vast majority of people posting on social media have been supportive.

“This event is open to the public but certainly people don’t have to attend,” Lyons added.

In order to keep the event “family-friendly” there was a strict code of conduct for attendees, including a prohibition on alcoholic beverages, illegal or illicit substances, cigars, cigarettes, and vape products.