On Saturday, June 29 from 11 a.m. – 2:30 p.m., Gorham will once again host a community organized Gorham Pride event at the Gorham Gazebo by the Baxter Memorial Library. All are welcome to the free event in celebration and support of the LGBTQIA+ community in Gorham and beyond.

Like last year, there will be live music as well as performances and storytime, food trucks, activities and face painting. Many local businesses and craftspeople will be on site and are also lending their support to the event.

Pride events began in the 1970’s as a counter revolution to the history of shame and persecution faced by members of the LGBTQIA+ community. In 2000, through a presidential proclamation, June was nationally designated Pride Month, in recognition of the 1969 Stonewall Riots.

When asked why it’s important to honor and celebrate the queer community, Gorham resident Health Robinson stated, “Visibility and representation ensure everyone feels seen and valued. When diverse identities are acknowledged and discussed openly, it fosters an environment of acceptance and understanding.” Robinson continued, “People, especially children, benefit from learning about different perspectives and ways of life because it helps them develop empathy, reduces bullying, and promotes inclusivity. By exposing people to a variety of identities and experiences, we are not telling them to be the same way; we are teaching them that it’s okay to be themselves and to respect others who might be different from them.”

The small group organizing Gorham Pride is composed of dedicated volunteers who first came together last year to put on the first ever Gorham Pride Celebration in June 2023. Along with the annual event, Gorham Pride also honors the queer community throughout the year, most recently by sponsoring an author talk at Baxter Memorial Library and paying to have rainbow crosswalks painted on Ball Park Rd and Access Rd. Gorham Pride advocated for and received approval by the Gorham Town Council on March 12, 2024 for the crosswalks.

Gorham Pride 2024 is sponsored by Hannaford, Maine Beer Company, and Martin’s Point Healthcare.