The theme of the 56th annual LGBTQ+ Pride celebration in Boston, hosted by Boston’s Pride for the People this past weekend, was, appropriately enough, “Pride as Protest: Since 1776.” And the events drew thousands upon thousands in a spirit of celebration and defiance against federal pushbacks targeting LGBTQ+ rights.
Reports the Boston Globe:
As rainbow flags waved across the streets of downtown Boston during the city’s 56th annual Pride Parade on Saturday, a sense of joyful defiance spread through the crowd.
The stakes felt even higher than usual this year. Many used the occasion to protest the Trump administration’s increased attacks on LGBTQ+ rights and other civil liberties.
While recent conservative backlash threatens to undermine decades of hard-fought progress, participants said they were determined to continue the longstanding American tradition of demanding freedom and equality, especially as 2026 marks the 250th anniversary of the country’s founding.
“It’s more important than ever — on the 250th and especially with Trump — to protest,” said Lisa Savage, 62, who comes to Pride every year. “It’s all about protest, showing up.”
Indeed, the theme of this year’s parade was “Pride as Protest: Since 1776.″
Thousands of people poured into downtown Boston late Saturday morning. Some draped Pride flags over their shoulders while others rode motorbikes adorned with rainbow colors. Mayor Michelle Wu walked the parade route holding a rainbow fan.
The weather was hot and muggy, but the mood was boisterous. Spectators lined the streets of the South End, cheering as the procession passed by.
Among them were John Tyler and his three young children.
“Pride is a celebration and a protest,” Tyler said. “We’re here to do both.”
