EAST PROVIDENCE — The administration of Mayor Bob DaSilva sponsored what it billed as East Providence’s first annual “Pride” parade celebrating the LGBTQI+ community of the city on Saturday, June 25.

Dozens of residents took part in the event which began at Pierce Field then traversed north onto Lyon Avenue before eventually reaching Taunton Avenue and ending at City Hall where flag raising ceremonies were held and words were spoken by some of the dignitaries on hand led by U.S. Senator Jack Reed.

Also in attendance were Mayor DaSilva, Lt. Govenor Sabina Matos, State Senator Val Lawson, State Representative Gregg Amore along with City Councilors Bob Britto and Bob Rodericsks. Of particular note as well on hand were member of the Mayor’s Council on LGBTQI+ Affairs and board including Chairperson Hunter Riley, Vice Chair Karen DePolo and Secretary Michael Smith.

Rep. Amore summed up the day with the following statement on Twitter, "Thank you to Mayor Bob DaSilva and the entire City Hall staff for putting on such a fantastic first ever East Providence PRIDE! I was honored to have the chance to speak at such a great event!"

— East Providence Post and eastbayri.com staff photographer Rich Dionne shot the accompanying gallery of photos.