Parades bring out the best in communities.

Pride, joy, unity, among others. For the Animal Rescue League of Boston (ARL), whether it be Boston’s South End, Dedham, or Brewster, we are more than a service agency for animals – we are a part of the communities in which we reside and are honored to participate in celebrations that bring these communities together.

This past Friday, Dedham hosted its 52nd annual Flag Day Parade, and ARL was once again honored to march in this grand, patriotic event.

Flag day of course marks the adoption of the flag of the United States on June 14, 1777, by the Second Continental Congress and Dedham’s parade is one not to miss!

With thousands of onlookers, ARL was in the midst of more than a dozen marching bands, drum and bugle corps, jazz bands, bagpipers, and hundreds of marchers, floats and flag bearers.

This is an event that ARL is proud to be a part of year after year and is already looking forward to 2020!

Over in the South End, ARL marched in the 49th annual Boston Pride Parade, which attracts thousands every year to celebrate equality, unity and community.

The massive parade route cuts through the heart of downtown Boston, ending at City Hall Plaza. The theme for this year’s parade was “looking back, loving forward,” honoring the 50-year anniversary of the famous Stonewall Riots, which paved the way for the Pride Movement.

ARL was ecstatic for the opportunity to take part in this important annual event to celebrate with our friends, neighbors and community.

To everyone who participated in these special events – THANK YOU!