Boston Pride Parade Blends Protest and Celebration

Boston's annual Pride Parade featured a strong combination of celebration and protest, drawing over a million participants and hundreds of organizations. The event carried the 'Here to Stay' theme, emphasizing resilience and defiance against attempts to restrict LGBTQ+ and particularly transgender rights. This year's parade coincided with the 'No Kings' day of defiance, a nationwide protest opposing authoritarianism and a proposed military parade in Washington, D.C. Organizers highlighted both the joys and anxieties facing the LGBTQ+ community, while political leaders like Senator Elizabeth Warren and Mayor Michelle Wu showed their support. The festivities on Boston Common included performances, vendors, and family activities, alongside peaceful protests and pointed criticism of Trump administration policies. Despite rain and increased security, the parade was a powerful display of unity, visibility, and activism.