PEABODY — Queer people and many allies of the LGBTQ+ community joined together Wednesday morning outside City Hall to celebrate love, inclusion, and diversity with a ceremonial Pride flag raising to acknowledge June as Pride Month.

Mayor Ted Bettencourt kicked off the ceremony by thanking former Councilor-at-Large Tom Gould, as he was “instrumental” in creating this annual tradition 15 years ago.

He then passed the mic over to North Shore Pride Founder and President Hope Watt-Bucci, who spoke on the importance of uplifting and protecting queer people and culture.

“We thought last year it was very important to show your pride,” Watt-Bucci said. “This year, we find it being even more important to show your pride because of all that’s happening: The anti-trans legislation that’s occurring throughout the country; hate crimes are up… I ask you all during the month of June and throughout the year, please show your pride.”

She highlighted that even small acts can have big impacts, specifically mentioning how a little flag or a positive, queer-inclusive sign hanging in a window can show support for the LGBTQ+ community and ensure queer people know they are entering a safe space.

“Stay stronger together, and have pride forever,” Watt-Bucci concluded.

Bettencourt emphasized that Wednesday morning’s Pride flag raising was a “declaration of love and acceptance.”

“It serves as a beacon of hope for those who are struggling and a celebration of the beautiful diversity that makes our community whole,” he shared.

As the vibrant, rainbow flag rose into the sky, it offered more than a colorful display. It sent a message that queer residents not only have a place in this community, but are seen, valued, and welcome.

As the crowd dispersed, Watt-Bucci’s message lingered in the warm June air. Pride isn’t just a month-long celebration, but a year-round commitment to showing up, speaking out, and standing together.

Peabody Mayor Ted Bettencourt speaks during the city’s Pride Month celebration on Wednesday.

Peabody Mayor Ted Bettencourt, right, presidents the Pride Month proclamation of Tom Gould, who was instrumental is starting the Pride flag raising as Peabody City Hall.

Peabody Mayor Ted Bettencourt is joined by Rochelle Sport, Julie Curtis, Tom Gould, state Rep. Tom Walsh, and North Shore Pride Founder and President Hope Watt-Bucci raise the Pride flag at Peabody City Hall on Wednesday.

Spectators film as the Pride flag is raised at Peabody City Hall on Wednesday.

Peabody Mayor Ted Bettencourt is joined by Rochelle Sport, Julie Curtis, Tom Gould, state Rep. Tom Walsh, and North Shore Pride Founder and President Hope Watt-Bucci raise the Pride flag at Peabody City Hall on Wednesday.

Rochelle Sport, from state Sen. Joan Lovely’s office, applauds after the Pride flag was raised at Peabody City Hall on Wednesday.

North Shore Pride Founder and President Hope Watt-Bucci wears a Pride shirt and pin.

The Pride flag was raised at Peabody City Hall on Wednesday in celebration of Pride Month.

The Pride flag flies over Peabody City Hall.