Union County Celebrates Pride Month with Flag Raising and Second Annual Pride 5K and Fun Color Run
Back-to-back events in June highlight inclusivity, celebration, and community unity

The Union County Board of County Commissioners is proud to celebrate Pride Month with two major events this June that uplift the LGBTQ+ community and bring residents together in support of equality, visibility, and joy.

First, Union County will host its annual LGBTQ+ Pride Flag Raising Ceremony on Monday, June 2nd at 12:30 p.m. at the Union County Courthouse. This symbolic event will feature powerful speeches from LGBTQ+ advocates and allies, including:

• Amanda Girardi, owner of Sweet n Fancy Emporium in Cranford, who received national attention and overwhelming support after facing boycotts for proudly displaying a Pride flag.
• Ferlie Almonte, international speaker, author, and 2023 Ms. NJ Senior America, known for her workshops on resilience, reinvention, and empowerment.
• Dave D'Amico, Chief Investigator with the Middlesex County Department of Corrections and co-chair of the NJ LGBTQ Law Enforcement Liaison Program, a nationally recognized advocate and educator on bias crimes and LGBTQ+ inclusion in law enforcement.

Then, on Saturday, June 7th, Union County will hold the second annual LGBTQ+ Pride 5K and Fun Color Run at Oak Ridge Park in Clark, beginning at 8:00 a.m. Participants of all ages and backgrounds are invited to walk, run, or roll in this vibrant celebration of Pride. The 5K is professionally timed and certified, while the Fun Color Run offers a playful experience where participants are doused with eco-friendly colored powder throughout the course. An opt-out option is available during registration for those who prefer to skip the color.

Registration for the 5K is $25 per person in advance and $30 on the day of the event. The non-competitive Fun Run is $15 per person. All registrants will receive a Pride 5K t-shirt while supplies last.

“This is more than just a race—it’s a celebration of inclusion, community, and the joy of being seen,” said Commissioner Chairwoman Lourdes M. Leon. “Last year’s Color Run was filled with laughter, support, and Pride. We’re excited to expand on that success and welcome even more participants this year.”

Both events are designed to promote awareness and unity, while also offering fun, education, and reflection. Resource tables, family-friendly activities, and giveaways will be available at the 5K.

“This is a meaningful way to kick off Pride Month,” said Commissioner Al Mirabella, liaison to the Union County LGBTQ Ad Hoc Committee. “Whether you're joining us at the courthouse or the park—or both—these events are about standing together and celebrating the strength of our diverse community.”

For questions, contact Robert Charkowsky, LGBTQ Affairs Coordinator, at lgbtq@ucnj.org or by calling 908-527-4742