Ed Cameron, candidate for City Council At-Large (incumbent)

What do you see as the biggest challenges facing the LGBTQIA+ community in Newburyport and in what ways do you see yourself supporting us in elected office?

Facing discrimination in all its various permutations has been and is an existential threat for the LGBTQIA+ community. For example, I do remember when marriage equality became the law of Massachusetts and I was glad our local State Representative supported that effort. We collectively need to push back so that our laws around marriage and discrimination are not rolled back.

Elected officials whatever their orientation and identity need to represent all their constituents and strive to make our society a more inclusive one. I am committed to fostering a city where everyone feels safe, valued, and celebrated. Your voices matter, and I am here to listen and advocate for you.

Do you support the annual celebration of Newburyport Pride? What does it mean to you?

I support Newburyport Pride wholeheartedly because it’s a celebration of what all people should feel---pride and acceptance in their community, State, and Nation.

What is your opinion of last year’s theme “Existence is Resistance”?

When facing extremes of hatred and ignorance, what other choice is there?

What are your hopes for Newburyport Pride 2026?

Keep on building momentum, support, and FUN!

What Newburyport Pride events have you attended? Tell us about your favorite Newburyport Pride event!

I believe I’ve attended them all and have the pictures to prove it! A special occasion was when Governor Healey attended and raised the Pride flag.

Is there anything else you would like to share with the Newburyport Pride audience?

I’m 100% with you.

For decades, I’ve worked with and for homeless people, mostly in Boston but also in Lowell and Malden, and supporting trans folks experiencing homelessness has been on radar since the mid 1990s. While working for then Mayor Tom Menino in Boston, I was the principal organizer of a half day workshop with services providers on how to better serve the trans population. I’ve never forgotten the lessons I learned helping to pull that effort together.