Mayor Domenic J. Sarno, Health and Human Services (HHS) Commissioner Helen Caulton-Harris, Chief Diversity & Inclusion Officer Judi Crowell, and city officials joined with Taurean Bethea, Executive Director of Springfield Pride Parade, on Thursday morning at City Hall for the 5th Annual Springfield Pride Parade Kickoff Press Conference.
They previewed this year’s programming, dates and events, highlight the organization’s five years of impact, emphasize the perennial youth and community initiatives IGNITE and Future Sparks, and showcase the continued growth of the parade and weekend itself.
Mayor Domenic J. Sarno stated, “Commissioner Helen Caulton-Harris, Chief Diversity and Inclusion Officer Judi Crowell and I, along with many city employees, are looking forward to once again joining with Taurean Bethea, who I commend and thank for his vision and leadership efforts, and our Springfield LGBTQIA+ community on for all of our Springfield Pride Parade Weekend festivities! The Pride Parade has grown each year and we are excited to be part of the many wonderful events like the Pride Flag Raising, the Pride Parade, and Block Party too in Stearns Square, all happening the first weekend of June from June 4th-6th.”
The 5th Annual Springfield Pride Parade Weekend returns June 4–6, 2026 — and this year, we’re going Beyond the Rainbow.
For five years, this celebration has grown into one of Western Massachusetts' most powerful moments of visibility, unity, and pride — bringing together thousands from across New England for a weekend that is as impactful as it is unforgettable.
Your participation directly supports our IGNITE and Future Sparks youth programs, helping LGBTQIA+ young people access leadership development, mentorship, and the tools they need to thrive.
Mayor Sarno continued, “We have had a wonderful time marching and celebrating with the thousands of participants in years past, and this year will be no different as we ‘Go Beyond the Rainbow.’ A good person is a good person, no matter what creed, color, background, sexual orientation, or gender identity. As a longtime member of Mayors Against LGBTQIA+ Discrimination, I am proud to stand in solidarity with the community to remind all that each of us deserves the same level of equality and respect. This month in particular, as we recognize Public Health Month, we thank and acknowledge those who have fought for equality for our LGBTQIA+ community and recognize that respecting the rights of all makes for a better city and community.”
About Springfield Pride Weekend
The Springfield Pride Weekend is an organization who is unwavering in their mission to empower every LGBTQIA+ youth. The team envisions a world where all young people, regardless of identity, have access to the resources and opportunities they deserve. By connecting them to vital health services, teaching financial literacy, and addressing housing insecurities, the Springfield Pride Parade works to eliminate barriers to their success.
