The Northshire community will come together this June to celebrate its first-ever Pride Month, culminating in a powerful moment of unity and visibility during the Circle of Visibility event on Sunday, June 15, 2025.
Held in solidarity with Pride events in Bennington and Dorset on Saturday, June 14, this Sunday celebration is designed to bring the Northshire together in a visible, inclusive show of love and support for the LGBTQIA+ community.

At 11:45 a.m., the event will begin with a short ceremony on Factory Point Town Green, honoring those—past and present—who have worked to make the Northshire a place where all people can belong and thrive. At 12:00 p.m., community members will gather in a “Full Circle” around the Manchester Roundabout, waving Pride flags in unison during a one-hour “Circle of Visibility,” symbolizing unity, affirmation, and the power of representation.

The event is organized by Jonathan and Thomas West, longtime advocates for equity and inclusion in the region. The couple has dedicated their lives to the belief that “Acceptance Through Visibility” is essential to a just and compassionate community. “Visibility is more than symbolic—it’s life-affirming,” said Jonathan West, Manchester Selectboard member. “When we show up, when we raise flags, when we form a circle in our most visible public space, we send a powerful message: You are not alone. You are seen. You belong.”

Last year, Jonathan brought forward a proposal to fly the Pride Flag at Town Hall. Though the request was denied, the Selectboard unanimously approved a proclamation in support of LGBTQIA+ residents and encouraged the display of Pride flags throughout the month. This year, a policy was enacted limiting municipal flagpoles to only the American, Vermont State, and Town flags. In response, the Wests donated over 200 Pride flags, available for free pickup at the Manchester Community Library and the Manchester Visitor’s Center.

“To those wondering if it’s their place to fly a flag—know that it is. Even if you don’t think you ‘need’ to, someone else does. Your flag might be the one that gives someone hope,” said Thomas West.

Residents, visitors, and businesses are encouraged to display a flag in June and to stand proudly on June 15 in the Circle of Visibility, reaffirming Manchester’s commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Flags are free, though donations to PFLAG Dorset—a local organization supporting LGBTQIA+ individuals and families—are gratefully encouraged.