A crowd of roughly 50 people gathered Monday for the raising of the Pride flag at Biddeford City Hall.
Monday’s ceremony kicks off at a month-long celebration of activities and events, all aimed at promoting the ideals of inclusivity, respect and diversity — especially for members of the LGBTQIA+ community — in Biddeford and beyond.
Mayor Marty Grohman addressed the crowd just before the flag was raised, telling them that he will later read an official proclamation regarding Pride month at the city council’s next regular meeting on Tuesday.
“We gather to raise the Pride flag as a symbol—not just of visibility, but of belonging. In Biddeford,” Grohman said. “We believe that everyone deserves to live openly and be celebrated for who they are.”
Grohman said the flag represents a community that is vibrant, resilient, and proud. “[This flag] represents our shared values of inclusion, dignity, and respect. And it reminds us that progress is made not just through big milestones—but through everyday acts of support and solidarity.”
“We gather to raise the Pride flag as a symbol
— Mayor Marty Grohman
—not just of visibility, but of belonging in Biddeford
“We raise this flag together, let it be a message to all—especially our youth—that you are seen, you are valued, and you are welcome here.” the mayor added.
Jamie and Krista Shaw attended Monday’s event. The couple recently moved to Biddeford from the city of Westbrook. As members of the LGBTQIA+ community, they say they feel welcomed in Biddeford.
“There is no such thing as safe, just safer” Jamie Shaw said.
Krista Shaw said they have found Biddeford to be “a very warm and welcoming community.”
Delilah Poupore, executive director of the Heart of Biddeford, said there are a number of activities and celebrations scheduled throughout Pride month in Biddeford.
For more information about Pride events in Biddeford, the Heart of Biddeford has created a web page that includes information and details regarding Pride month activities and events. For more information, please visit https://heartofbiddeford.org/pride-3/
Randy Seaver is the editor and founder of the Biddeford Gazette. He may be contacted by email: randy@randyseaver.com
Never miss another update! Subscribe for free today!
BIDDEFORD GAZETTE 