Roslindale, Boston, October 12, 2025
News Summary
In Roslindale, Boston, the Pride flag owned by Kelly Walsh at Russ and Mimi’s market and cafe was vandalized early on October 4. The flag was torn down and found discarded in a dumpster, prompting an outpouring of support from the community. Local leaders, including the Boston Mayor, visited Walsh to show solidarity. This incident reflects a troubling trend of increasing vandalism against Pride symbols nationwide, with increased concerns over LGBTQ rights. Walsh plans to replace the flag soon as the community rallies behind her.
Roslindale, Boston — Kelly Walsh, owner of Russ and Mimi’s market and cafe, discovered her Pride flag torn down when she arrived at her shop in Roslindale, Boston. The flagpole bracket was broken and the flag itself was thrown into a nearby dumpster, and the vandalism occurred on October 4 at around 5 a.m. Walsh initially believed the flag had blown down but found clear signs of deliberate damage on arrival.
What happened
The Pride flag had been displayed from the beginning of June and was taken down in the early hours of a Saturday morning. After finding the flag in a dumpster and the bracket broken, Walsh posted a message on Facebook seeking information about the incident, which resulted in strong community support and offers to help replace the flag. Community members rallied to support Walsh, offering funds for a new flag and expressing their solidarity.
Local response and solidarity
One week after the vandalism, Boston Mayor Michelle Wu and City Councilmember Enrique Pepén visited Walsh to show solidarity with her and the LGBTQ community. Councilmember Pepén conveyed that the attack does not reflect the values of the Roslindale community and emphasized unity and support in the face of such incidents. Nearby businesses, including LGBTQ-owned establishments, expressed their support for Walsh and condemned the vandalism. Walsh expressed feeling at home due to the love and support she received from the community, despite the hatred that prompted the vandalism.
Owner actions and next steps
Walsh planned to report the incident to the police and indicated she is unsure if it was a targeted hate crime or a random act by individuals. She plans to display a new Pride flag by the following week.
Wider pattern and data
The incident is part of a troubling trend. So far this year, there have been seven instances in Massachusetts where Pride flags were vandalized, as per GLAAD data. GLAAD has reported multiple incidents of Pride symbols being targeted, including arson cases in Massachusetts. Reports indicate that attacks on Pride symbols have risen nationally, reflecting broader societal attitudes towards LGBTQ rights and existence. Other instances of Pride flag vandalism have taken place in the Boston area, with incidents involving flags being torn down or set on fire.
Context about the flag
The original Pride flag included various representations, symbolizing the transgender community, people of color, and memorializing those lost to HIV/AIDS. The flag at Russ and Mimi’s had been displayed since early June and was removed by the vandalism on October 4.
Community perspective and concerns
Community members and local leaders described the act as alarming and eye-opening, noting an atmosphere where some people feel emboldened to carry out such acts. There is speculation that the vandalism may indicate larger societal debates over LGBTQ rights, and that such acts of vandalism may be opportunistic expressions of hostility. While Massachusetts has a reputation for being liberal, attacks on LGBTQ symbols suggest that hostility toward LGBTQ individuals can occur even in progressive communities.
Practical outcomes
Funds have been offered by community members to replace the flag, and Walsh indicated plans to reinstall a new Pride flag soon. The incident prompted increased attention and visits from city officials meant to show support and to encourage reporting and investigation of such incidents.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who discovered the vandalism?
Kelly Walsh, owner of Russ and Mimi’s market and cafe, discovered her Pride flag torn down when she arrived at her shop in Roslindale, Boston.
When did the vandalism occur?
The vandalism occurred on October 4.
What evidence indicated the flag was vandalized?
The flagpole bracket was broken and the flag itself was thrown into a nearby dumpster.
Did the owner report the incident?
Walsh planned to report the incident to the police and indicated she is unsure if it was a targeted hate crime or a random act by individuals.
How did the community respond?
Community members rallied to support Walsh, offering funds for a new flag and expressing their solidarity.
Were city officials involved?
One week after the vandalism, Boston Mayor Michelle Wu and City Councilmember Enrique Pepén visited Walsh to show solidarity with her and the LGBTQ community.
Is this part of a larger trend?
So far this year, there have been seven instances in Massachusetts where Pride flags were vandalized, as per GLAAD data.
Have attacks on Pride symbols risen more broadly?
Reports indicate that attacks on Pride symbols have risen nationally, reflecting broader societal attitudes towards LGBTQ rights and existence.
When was the Pride flag displayed at Russ and Mimi’s?
The flag was displayed from the beginning of June; the vandalism occurred on October 4.
Quick reference table
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Location | Russ and Mimi’s market and cafe, Roslindale, Boston |
| Owner | Kelly Walsh |
| Date and time of incident | October 4, around 5 a.m. |
| Damage | Flagpole bracket broken; Pride flag thrown into nearby dumpster |
| Flag display period | Displayed from the beginning of June |
| Community response | Local fundraising offers, visits from city officials, support from nearby businesses |
| Official actions planned | Walsh planned to report the incident to the police |
| Broader data (State-level) | So far this year, there have been seven instances in Massachusetts where Pride flags were vandalized, as per GLAAD data |
| Broader pattern (Nationwide) | Reports indicate that attacks on Pride symbols have risen nationally, reflecting broader societal attitudes towards LGBTQ rights and existence |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- CBS News: Roslindale Restaurant Pride Flag Ripped Down
- Boston Globe: Pride Flag Attack in Roslindale
- CBS News: Mayor Wu Shows Solidarity
- WCVB: Pride Flag Torn Down in Roslindale
- Wikipedia: Pride Flag
- Google Search: Pride Flag Vandalism Boston
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