Fall River, Mass. – The Fall River Pride Committee is preparing for a series of upcoming events throughout November and December, bringing the community together for remembrance, fellowship, and holiday celebration. From honoring transgender lives lost to violence to sharing a holiday meal and participating in Fall River’s annual Christmas parade, the Committee invites residents, families, allies, and supporters to take part.
Transgender Day of Remembrance Ceremony and Vigil – Friday, November 20th
The Fall River Pride Committee invites the community to gather on Friday, November 20th, from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. for its annual Transgender Day of Remembrance Ceremony and Vigil.
This annual observance honors and remembers transgender, nonbinary, and gender nonconforming individuals whose lives have been lost to acts of anti-transgender violence. It is an opportunity for the community to come together, reflect on those we have lost, and reaffirm a shared commitment to building a safer, more inclusive world.
The evening will begin at 5:00 p.m. inside the Fall River City Hall Atrium, located at 1 Government Center, with opening remarks, community speakers, and a reading of the official mayoral proclamation.
Following the opening ceremony, attendees will gather outside for a unified candlelight walk from City Hall to the Church of the Holy Spirit, located at 160 Rock Street in Fall River. Candles will be provided to participants. Upon arrival at the church, attendees will gather for a solemn and inclusive remembrance service featuring a reading of the names of those lost this year, musical reflections, and moments of shared community support.
The event is free and open to all community members, allies, and friends. The indoor portions of the event will be wheelchair accessible. As the candlelight walk will take place outdoors, attendees are encouraged to dress warmly for the November weather.
Community advocates and support resources will also be available throughout the evening for anyone who may need assistance or a supportive space.
Community Friendsgiving – Sunday, November 29th
The Fall River Pride Committee and the Church of the Holy Spirit are partnering to host a free community Friendsgiving on Sunday, November 29th, from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. at the Church of the Holy Spirit, located at 160 Rock Street in Fall River.
Friendsgiving is an opportunity for people to celebrate chosen family, connect with neighbors, and enjoy a warm meal in a safe, welcoming, and inclusive environment. Whether someone cannot travel home to biological relatives, is looking for a place to celebrate, or simply wants to meet new people, everyone is welcome at the table.
Community members interested in volunteering to help with setup, meal service, or cleanup are encouraged to participate. Volunteers should arrive at 10:00 a.m. on the day of the event. Those who would like to contribute a specific dish are also welcome to do so.
Fall River Christmas Parade – Saturday, December 5th
The Fall River Pride Committee will also take part in the city’s annual Christmas Parade on Saturday, December 5. Committee members and supporters will come together to celebrate the holiday season and bring a message of pride, visibility, and inclusion to the festivities.
The Committee encourages community members to come out, show their support, and help make this year’s parade a celebration for everyone.
As the holiday season approaches, the Fall River Pride Committee is organizing community gatherings that include opportunities for connection and support. Events may involve shared meals, remembrance, or seasonal celebrations. The committee has stated that these activities are intended to provide spaces where participants can take part if they choose.
The Fall River Pride Committee is inviting residents, families, friends, and others in the community to attend the upcoming events. The group operates as a ministry of the Church of the Holy Spirit. It is working to hold an annual pride festival in Fall River and serves as a resource for people in the LGBTQ+ community. The committee also plans to host events and fundraisers to support its programming.
For more information about The Fall River Pride Committee, contact Myles Lowery at (508) 728-8297, or email fallriverpridecommittee@gmail.com. More info about FRPC can be found on its Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/FallRiverPrideco/
