Giuliano D’Orazio

Worcester Pride 2021

Thanks to collaborative effort and determination, Worcester Pride 2021 is happening. In a flyer issued last month, the Queer Coalition of Greater Worcester announced September 8 to 14 would would be a “full week of Pride festivities” in our city. With the dissolution of the former Worcester Pride organization, we can expect a shift from the festival of years past, but it does sound like there will be plenty of exciting events as well as a clear and intentional focus on activism — reminding folks why we still need Pride, why it matters. 

Formed in late 2019, the Queer Coalition of Greater Worcester describes themselves as a “collaborative community initiative working to bring activities supporting LGBTQ+ folx in Central Mass closer together”. The cohort is comprised of change-makers, activists, community members, and organizations that all respectively work to better the lives of queer folks in central Massachusetts and beyond. This year, different organizations and venues will be hosting their own separate events, scheduled throughout the week. As per tradition, the Saturday following Labor Day (this year, September 11) will be the headline day for events. However, in lieu of a parade, this year the coalition is hosting “Queer the Block”, a rally and block party. 

In their July announcement, the Queer Coalition says, “While we celebrate Pride and the progress of our LGBTQ+ community, there is a critical need to continue our fight for equity, justice and equality. In place of a Pride parade and festival this year, we will host a rally and block party on Saturday, Sept. 11 in support of queer folx who continue to face oppression, marginalization, and hate; challenges that disproportionately effect queer people of color in our city and nation”. 

Outside of the Queer the Block event, Saturday, as well as the rest of the weekend, are going to be full of festivities. 508Pride plans to host a Queer Prom for adults, Queer The Scene will be throwing a party Friday evening, SWAGLY will throw a Youth Prom, Love Your Labels is hosting Queer AF on Saturday evening. While not affiliated with the Queer Coalition, MB Lounge plans to host their traditional Pride block party event on the 11th as well. There’s more events (perhaps even something at Polar Park) and specific dates to be announced as Pride Week approaches. In the meantime, visit Prideworcester.org for details on all that’s going on.