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Mayor Eric Kitchier and community leaders raise Pride flag as Greater Lowell marks 10th anniversary
Summary
Mayor Eric Kitchier, state and local officials and community organizers gathered for a Pride flag-raising in Lowell to mark the 10th anniversary of Greater Lowell Pride; organizers highlighted a new Pride Playbook and a community festival at DCR Lowell Heritage State Park.
At a June flag-raising ceremony, Mayor Eric Kitchier and community leaders raised the Pride flag to mark the 10th anniversary of Greater Lowell Pride, organizers said.
Carrie Denter, executive director of the Greater Lowell Health Alliance, opened the event and credited a 2016 grassroots picnic at Boarding House Park with starting what organizers now describe as a regional celebration. "We mark this milestone," Denter said, framing Pride as both celebration and a public-health effort to promote belonging and well-being.
The city issued a proclamation declaring June 2026 Pride Month. Councilor Belinda Duran read the proclamation, which referenced the Stonewall uprising of June 28, 1969, and urged residents to recognize the contributions of LGBTQIA+ people to Lowell's history, culture and economy.
State Senator Ivana Howard, who said she attended a State House flag-raising earlier in the month, called Lowell's observance part of a broader effort across Massachusetts and affirmed she will continue to be "your strongest ally." Mayor Kitchier thanked organizers and public officials in attendance, saying the Pride flag "represents generations of individuals who work tirelessly to advance equality."
Organizers used findings from a 2025 Greater Lowell community health needs assessment to justify ongoing programming. Ella Harris, author of the new Greater Lowell Pride Playbook and an Alliance staff member, said the survey showed mental health as a top priority for LGBTQ+ residents and urged sustained, year-round community building. Harris read from the Playbook: "You have the power to create whatever community you want."
The Alliance invited the public to continue the celebration at the Greater Lowell Pride Festival from 1 to 4 p.m. at DCR Lowell Heritage State Park on the Boulevard; a shuttle was announced between City Hall and the festival.
The event combined ceremonial remarks, a city proclamation and community-focused resources aimed at sustaining inclusion beyond Pride Month.
