Preparing for Pride: South Coast LGBTQ+ Network shares its line-up for Pride Month 2023
NEW BEDFORD — Pride Month is on the horizon and the South Coast LGBTQ+ Network is hoping to top everything it did last year with more opportunities to wave your rainbow flag high and proud in the New Bedford area.
“This year we are celebrating the incredible strength and resilience of the South Coast LGBTQ+ community,” said Andy Pollock, president of the network.
On June 3, the network's marquee event will begin at Buttonwood Park with a Pride Wellness Walk and Pride Yoga, while Hopewell Park in Taunton will host its signature Pride Festival on June 10.
The Network has also partnered with local organizations such as AHA! New Bedford, Gallery X of New Bedford, the New Bedford Wellness Initiative, Le Place and Bobby’s Place to extend the reach and impact of this momentous celebration.
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“Over the past 12 months, we have witnessed an onslaught of attacks on the fundamental rights and freedoms of LGBTQ+ individuals, families, allies, and businesses,” said Pollack. “We want everyone to know our community is more determined than ever to live our lives proudly, authentically, and on our terms.”
Midsummer in the Woods - Pride Launch Gala
On Thursday, June 1, at 6 p.m., The Network will host a fundraising gala to benefit the construction of the future South Coast LGBTQ+ Community Center. Inspired by the work of William Shakespeare, Midsummer in the Woods will feature an evening of cocktails, hors-d’oeuvres, dinner, and live entertainment at Round the Bend Farm in Dartmouth.
Kaleidoscope: Art Through Your Eyes
In partnership with New Bedford’s Gallery X, The Network invites LGBTQ+ and allied artists from the South Coast to showcase their work to the community May 31 through June 25. Wednesdays through Sundays, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Raising of the Pride Flag at New Bedford
On June 2 at 4 p.m., Pride 2023 opens with the raising of the Pride Flag in downtown New Bedford.
Pride Yoga and Wellness Walk
On June 3, join South Coast cardiologist Dr. Michael Rocha, founder of the New Bedford Wellness Initiative, for a healthy and energizing stroll around Buttonwood Park.
Afterwards, Jeff Costa of Sangha Studio in New Bedford brings an hour of mindfulness, meditation, yoga, and togetherness to South LGBTQ+ individuals, families, and allies.
LGBTQ+ Breakfast Club
On June 4, enjoy the company of other older LGBTQ+ individuals (60+) at this brunch event designed to foster sharing and togetherness at Mikey B’s Restaurant, 989 Victoria St., New Bedford.
Transgender Support & Visibility Group
Part of a six-week, moderated series of conversations designed to help transgender individuals develop the skills and tools they need to lead happy and fulfilling lives located at Groundwork in New Bedford starting June 6.
Nature Walk in Massasoit State Park
On June 7, 14, 21 and 28, there will be a leisurely nature walk around Massasoit State Park open to all (including pets), each Wednesday during Pride Month at 6 p.m.
Aging Well Series for Older (60+) LGBTQ+ Individuals
Featuring a workshop to “Design Your Own Pride Flag” (June 8) and an Ice Cream Social (June 22) at First Parish Church in Taunton. On June 25, there will be an older LGBTQ+ bowling night at Wonder Bowl at 6:00 p.m.
AHA! Pride Block Party
On June 8, the joyous annual festival featuring live performances, vendors, community partners, dancing, and more from 5 p.m. to 11 p.m.. Visit ahanewbedford.org for more details.
Taunton Pride Festival 2023
On June 10, Taunton’s signature Pride celebration, featuring music, dancing, food, drag performances, games, vendors, family activities, and more. Followed at 6:00 p.m. by an afterparty at Bobby’s Place in Taunton.
Screening: “The Lonely Doryman”
On June 17 at 2 p.m. at the Whaling National Park, this short film, which explores Portuguese heritage and queer identity, follows the story of Luis, a man from the town of Vila Franca Do Campo in São Miguel, Azores, who, after joining The White Fleet in search of purpose and money, finds himself lost and alone on a deserted island in the Atlantic. From local filmmaker Noah Duarte.
Reflections on Faith at Youtube event
On June 18, one often-neglected subject of crucial importance to the LGBTQ+ community is the subject of spirituality. This Pride, Andy Pollock, president of The South Coast LGBTQ+ Network, speaks to the Rev. Dr. Michelle Walsh of the First Parish Church of Taunton.
Pride Shabbat.
On June 30 at 7:00 p.m., a special Pride service will be held at Congregation Agudath Achim in Taunton to celebrate a LBGTQ+ community of friends and family. Kiddush to follow services with traditional challah, coffee and pastries.
Standard-Times staff writer Seth Chitwood can be reached at schitwood@s-t.com. Follow him on twitter: @ChitwoodReports. Support local journalism by purchasing a digital or print subscription to The Standard-Times today.
This article originally appeared on Standard-Times: The Network plans events for upcoming Pride in June 2023
