4 days ago
Mansfield to kick off Pride with flag-raising ceremony
MANSFIELD — The Mansfield Town Council recently passed a resolution to recognize that June 2025 will be designated LGBTQIA2S+ Pride Month.
To celebrate the start of Pride Month, the town will hold a flag-raising ceremony for the Intersex-Inclusive Progress Flag in the courtyard facing South Eagleville Road at the Audrey P. Beck Municipal Offices.
Mayor Toni Moran will lead the ceremony and read the proclamation on behalf of the Town Council. Members of the Human Rights Commission and Town Council will also join her.
'Mansfield is a welcoming community,' Moran said. 'We value all our residents and want to make it clear that people who have suffered discrimination and abuse will not find that here.'
Superintendent of Schools Peter Dart will offer special remarks.
Public members are invited to attend, and free Pride flags will be distributed. In case of rain, the celebration will be held inside the Town Council Chambers.
The Progress Pride flag will be displayed every day in June at Town Hall and other public buildings, including the Mansfield Public Library and the Mansfield Senior Center.
Mansfield Youth Services, Mansfield Public Library and the Mansfield Senior Center will also give out free flags to the public while supplies last.
'Sometimes it's necessary to make positive statements to reassure people who have legitimate fears for their safety,' Moran said. 'Our community has benefited greatly from the many members of the LGBT+ community who have chosen to live and work in Mansfield, and it is appropriate that we acknowledge their presence and offer reassurance to the young people who may need it.'
Other Pride events in Mansfield include the Celebrate Pride festival, which will take place Friday at 5 p.m. at the Betsy Paterson Square in Downtown Storrs. Celebrate Pride is free and open to the public. In case of inclement weather, the event will be held indoors at the Mansfield Community Center.
