Lauren Eramo, candidate for School Committee

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?

Newburyport can be a very welcoming and comfortable place to live as a queer adult. I think the atmosphere created by the current administration, at the Federal level, can be very difficult for young people to navigate. Because of this, it is even more important for the City of Newburyport and the School District and its teachers and leaders to be welcoming and supportive of young people as they explore their identity and ask questions. As a School Committee, we need to support our school librarians so they can be sure that there are ample books available in our school libraries that show diverse characters and situations. We need to be sure that our policies are supportive and we are open to discussing and changing any policies that do not support our young people as they grow and explore their world.

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

Participating in Newburyport Pride parades over the last few years has been such a joy! From the first year when the Governor joined us to this past year as the parade itself grew in size, it has been amazing to watch our City celebrate Pride! I hope that our City will continue to prioritize this celebration for many years to come.

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

The Pride committee did an excellent job in recognizing that sometimes just living our lives is an act of resistance. I love this theme and I wear my shirt with Pride!

What are your hopes for Newburyport Pride 2026?

I just hope that whoever is in the Mayor’s office in 2026 recognizes how important this event is to so many peo[ple in Newburyport and it continues to be supported by our City.

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

I really enjoy the parade itself the most. On a beautiful sunny day, to have music and dancing and to see all types of families and all types of people celebrating together is really the best! I especially love seeing teens feeling free to express themselves in an atmosphere of acceptance.

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

I just feel very grateful to all of the people on the committee who volunteer to make this happen every year.