AMESBURY — Scores of people are expected to turn out Sunday as the Partnership of Amesbury Community and Teens (PACT) is getting ready for its third year hosting Amesbury Days’ Pride event.
The fun is scheduled to begin at 1 p.m. at the Upper Millyard amphitheater and will include activities, guest speakers and more.
“Attendees can look forward to a vibrant celebration featuring a DJ, inspiring speakers such as the mayor, LGBTQ+ residents and allies. We have community resource tables and family friendly activities,” Kelly McKora, PACT’s program coordinator said, in an email to The Daily News.
Pride will also provide an opportunity to support LGBTQ+ artists and celebrate the unveiling of the new wave mural being assembled at the archway leading up to the Upper Millyard.
“We’ll also have one art studio hosting LGBTQ+ artists in their gallery and a community art project ribbon cutting towards the end of the celebration,” McKora said.
Organizers expect more than 100 people to join the festivities. McKora said the community has been supportive of the event.
“The response has been overwhelmingly positive. Local businesses, organizations, and residents have shown incredible support through volunteering and participation,” they said.
McKora said they believe it is important to have an event like pride during tumultuous times.
“In times of social unrest, Pride becomes even more vital. It’s a space for visibility, solidarity, and joy where we affirm our identities, support one another, and remind the world that LGBTQ+ rights are human rights,” they said.
Sheila Beach, Amesbury Chamber of Commerce executive director, said her organization appreciates the inclusivity fostered by the event.
“We are thrilled to have the Amesbury Days Pride event return each year. It’s a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the diversity within our community and highlight Amesbury as a welcoming and inclusive place for everyone,” Beach said.
Mayor Kassandra Gove will speak at the event.
Gove said she is grateful to PACT and all those involved in organizing the event.
“Amesbury’s Pride celebration is a powerful reflection of our community’s commitment to inclusion, love and equality. It’s a time when neighbors, families, and allies come together to honor the LGBTQ+ community in a statement of unity. I would like to thank PACT, the community, and especially Amesbury’s youth who have taken the initiative to make this yearly event what it has grown to become,” she said.
With Amesbury Days officially underway, Gove also said she is excited for more events to come.
“I’m looking forward to attending on Sunday as well as many other Amesbury Days events that kick off with the block party,” Gove said, referring to the event in the Lower Millyard.