On June 2, 2023, Newtown Borough in Pennsylvania held a flag raising ceremony at Borough Hall to kick off Pride Month, celebrating the anniversary of the 1969 Stonewall uprising. The event was marked by applause as the Pride Flag was hoisted, symbolizing the ongoing fight for LGBTQ+ rights and inclusivity. Mayor Tara Grunde-McLaughlin, along with local leaders like Barbara Simmons and State Senator Steve Santarsiero, spoke about the values of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness, stressing that these rights are under threat from recent anti-LGBTQ legislation. The gathering featured nine speakers, including youth voices like NaNa Courtney-Bacher, who shared personal reflections on the significance of Pride Month and the connections formed through shared experiences. Joanna Buchner recited her powerful poem, 'We Are Here,' which resonated with themes of resilience and visibility for the LGBTQ+ community. The event served as a reminder of the importance of community support in the face of adversity, encouraging attendees to celebrate their identities and advocate for acceptance.