On June 2, 2025, the Holyoke Pride Committee, the Mayor of Holyoke, local dignitaries, members of the LGBTQIA+ community, and the public, gathered outside Holyoke City Hall, to recognize the beginning of Pride Month in June, and raise the Pride Flag.

After a welcoming by Pride Committee member and City Councilor for Ward 6, Juan Anderson-Burgos, Mayor Joshua A. Garcia made remarks about the importance of Pride and its meaning fore the community in Holyoke.

Other messages of support were offered by State Representative Patricia Duffy, and School Committee member and current President of the National School Board Association, Devin Sheehan. As representation of the LGBTQIA+ youth, High school student Kaycee Valentin, from House of Colors, shared her experience and appreciation for the welcoming, acceptance, and support she has received in the Holyoke community.

The keynote speaker was Marybel Delgado, mother of a trans son and founder of Transcending Beyond Inc., a non-profit that provides emotional support, resources, and education to transgender individuals and those who identify within the LGBTQIA community and their families.

Mayor García read a proclamation, as the Pride flag was raised by the speakers in this event.

For all the events, activities, and celebrations during June, Pride month, you can visit: www.holyokepride.org