The West Roxbury Boston Public Library’s (BPL) Pride Month flag-raising, hosted by District 6 City Councilor Ben Weber, drew about 75 people, including many families with children, to the library lawn late Friday afternoon, June 5. Attendees reconnected with neighbors and met new friends during the celebration. This was the second year of the event in West Roxbury. Weber’s office provided refreshments, treats, and a rainbow-colored cake.

Weber explained that the idea originated with a West Roxbury resident, Michael Fagone, who wanted to celebrate Pride Month.

“We hadn't (my office) arranged for a Pride flag raising before. We looked around for a place to do it, and the library was a great location. They, the Boston Public Library (BPL), really stepped up and they offered the space. And so, we figured, why not. Let's do this again.”

Joining in welcoming attendees was State Rep. Bill MacGregor.

“Councilor Weber puts this together every year. We are both allies, and I'm just glad he brought it to West Roxbury for all of us. So, I hope everyone's having a happy Pride Month,” he said encouraging people to enjoy the refreshments.

Also present was Boston City Council President; City Councilor, District 9 Liz Breadon, the first openly LGBTQ+ woman to serve as Boston City Council President, and the first Council President to represent Allston-Brighton. Breadon explained her conversation with Weber about the flag raising.

“I was talking to him last night and he said there was a flag raising in West Roxbury and he told me a little bit of the story. And I said, you know, I think I should come over.” Breadon spoke about the meaning of community. “I think in this moment it's very important to celebrate and celebrate our unity and also find joy.” She said she was also grateful to Weber for letting her know about the event. “I really appreciate you all being here. Ben Weber is a mensch. He's got a big heart. He's a hard worker, and he's just a great colleague on the City Council and you're very lucky to have this guy here.”

City Councilor, At-Large Ruthzee Louijeune brought a brief serious tone to the occasion. “So many of us are under attack right now. It's important for us to remember to gather in all the places.” Pointing to the flag she said, “This is a beautiful flag. So, happy Pride. Pride was a riot. We continue to fight for justice for all of our communities.”

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Referring to the annual Pride march in downtown Boston scheduled for June 6, she said, “If anyone is going to the parade tomorrow, I'll see you there. If anybody wants to walk with Team Ruthzee in the parade tomorrow, join us at 10 o'clock in the morning.” Breadon and MacGregor raised the American flag and the multicolored Pride flag below it, up the pole to applause.

Those who came out to celebrate and reconnect with the community were pleased to be there.

“We wanted to come out and support Pride in the neighborhood. We're just so pleased that Ben's office helped organize this. And it's a chance to see friends and neighbors and be part of our community,” said Mark Engelter.

Another neighbor, Jonathan, who could not attend the 2025 flag raising, made it a point to come out to this one.

“We wanted to make sure at least we were coming in its second year to help support it, a great initiative … we found the dates for it and decided it would be a fun activity to join.”

As the cake was distributed and children played on the lawn on a perfect summer day, Pride Month was officially launched in West Roxbury.