Jamestown, N.Y. – The community is invited to the Pride Month Opening Ceremony at the Robert H. Jackson Center, 305 E. 4th St., Jamestown, on Saturday, June 1, at 10 a.m.

The event will feature the raising of Jamestown’s Progress Pride flag, symbolizing the diversity and inclusivity of the LGBTQ community. The flag, designed in 2018, incorporates elements to honor marginalized groups including people of color, trans individuals, and those affected by HIV/AIDS.

This year’s Pride Month commemorates the 55th anniversary of the Stonewall protests, a pivotal event in the fight for LGBTQ rights in the U.S. Local speakers will share their experiences and contributions to LGBTQ rights in Jamestown and Chautauqua County.

Attendees can participate in voter registration, enjoy refreshments, and purchase Jamestown Pride merchandise. The celebration continues on Saturday, June 8, with the 2024 Jamestown Pride event, featuring a variety of activities throughout the day in downtown Jamestown.

Highlights include the first-ever Jamestown Pride variety show at noon at the Winter Garden Plaza, 313 North Main St. Local talents of all ages are encouraged to audition by May 28 via tinyurl.com/JtownPrideVarietyShow.

June 8 activities kick off with 8 a.m. yoga at Winter Garden Plaza, followed by a community drum circle, live music, and performances including drag artist Thee Suburbia. The Rainbow Walk will depart from the plaza at 1 p.m.

The Jamestown Public Market will feature Pride vendors and community organizations from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Evening entertainment will include drag, burlesque, and dancing.

On Sunday, June 9, St. Luke’s Episcopal Church and First Presbyterian Church will host Pride services. The festivities conclude with a drag brunch fundraiser at Rose & Grace Studios.

For a complete schedule, visit JamestownPride.org/Events. Community members can volunteer for various event needs by signing up at bit.ly/JPrideVol.

The 2024 Jamestown Pride is presented by Evergreen Health and the Mental Health Association in Chautauqua County. Sponsorship opportunities are available; contact info@JamestownPride.com for more information.