JAMESTOWN, N.Y. — ​The city of Jamestown is flying high Sunday on this National Coming Out Day, as the local LGBTQ+ community has put its pride on display.

What You Need To Know

  • Sunday is National Coming Out Day

  • The city of Jamestown raised the PRIDE flag in celebration

  • The Fenton History Center collecting photos and coming out stories for new exhibit opening early next year

For the first time in its history, the Jamestown community raised the PRIDE flag at Tracy Plaza, outside City Hall Sunday.

Jamestown Mayor Eddie Sundquist says the event is designed to celebrate National Coming Out Day for the LGBTQ+ community.

"Summoning that strength to reveal the inner most part of you. This flag is a symbol that no matter what happens in our nation, Jamestown is, and will continue to be, a welcoming place, no matter where you fall on the spectrum, and no matter whom you choose to love," Jamestown Mayor Eddie Sundquist said.

"By coming out, I gained a sense of community, the like of which I never imagined. With my truth came acceptance, and with acceptance came love," said Tasha McFaul-Marsh, Jamestown PRIDE Committee member.

McFaul-Marsh shared her coming out story, and how she had to rebuild her life. She said many, like her, who lose the family they were born into, are able to find and choose members of a new one.

"I found now that I have many fathers, mothers, brothers and sisters. And I have found so much love in my heart and am so grateful to be able to gain so much," said McFaul-Marsh.

In conjunction with National Coming Day and the city’s flag raising ceremony, local members of the LGBTQ+ community shared their stories virtually, which will be added to a state funded exhibit here at the Fenton History Center in Jamestown expected to be open to the public early next year.

"It's been incredibly rewarding. We want people who come in, who don't have experience with the LGBTQ+ community, to leave knowing what it's like to be part of that community," said Noah Goodling, Fenton History Center executive director.

Goodling has spent the last year collecting photos and coming out stories from the community. He says he hopes to create awareness and educate the community to help overcome some of the divisiveness and negative comments associated with the project. 

"Help our community grow together, grow to be a little bit more educated about each other's lives. And to be able to present a fuller picture of our diverse and full community here in Jamestown," said Goodling.

The flag will come down Monday and be handed over to the city's PRIDE committee.