A Monthly Newsletter from Senator Julian Cyr
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July 2025
Dear Friends,

There are more than a few reasons to celebrate the official start of summer: the great weather, the time on the water (taking the fast ferry to and from Boston instead of driving in the summer is such a game changer), and all the people we love to see visiting us on Cape Cod, Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket. But indulge me for a moment while I celebrate some work milestones: for the first time since 2019, the House and Senate have agreed on joint legislative rules. That may sound procedural, but it is a big deal and a sign of the cooperative, collaborative spirit in which we’re aiming to approach our work this session. That same spirit helped us pass the state budget for FY26 before the start of the new fiscal year — earlier than we have in any of my prior four terms. As someone who’s seen how gridlock can slow things down, I’m encouraged by the way both chambers have shown up to do the hard work, listen to one another, and deliver results.

Meanwhile, as they tried desperately in Washington to rebrand June as something other than Pride Month, we spent the month making sure that the LGBTQ+ community here feels as safe, visible, included and dignified as ever; from the annual Pride Flag Raising at the State House, to the inaugural Lower Cape Pride where I got to march with my family, to the protest on the steps of Provincetown Town Hall, I stood proudly with my community through what honestly feels like the most consequential Pride of my lifetime. Here in Massachusetts, June will always be Pride Month, no matter what the federal administration says or does.

Also last month, we welcomed Governor Healey back to Martha’s Vineyard; we met with islanders on vital issues and toured the new hospital workforce housing units that recently went live. On Beacon Hill, we advanced major policy on housing, economic development, public health, and climate, with significant investments for the Cape and Islands. You’ll find highlights on those efforts in this newsletter, along with updates from Juneteenth, the many meetings and events and hearings I held and attended, and the final legislative stretch before formal session wraps on July 31.

Of course, even as we make progress, we’re reminded of how fragile our democracy can be. Since June 14, many of us have been grieving the horrific, politically motivated assassination of Minnesota Speaker Emerita Melissa Hortman and her husband Mark. Earlier that same night, State Senator John Hoffman and his wife Yvette were also shot. Senator Hoffman remains hospitalized, and Yvette, who shielded their daughter during the attack, is recovering.

Authorities found a list in the suspect’s car naming nearly 70 people, nearly all of them Democratic elected officials and advocates for reproductive freedom and LGBTQ+ rights. This was not a random act. It was a chilling reminder of the dangers of escalating political rhetoric and dehumanization.

I had the chance to meet with Speaker Hortman just last July when she visited the Massachusetts State House. We were comparing notes on how to update parentage laws in our respective states. She was smart, principled, and kind. She was the type of public servant we need more of. Her loss is deeply felt. We can disagree on policy and still honor one another’s humanity. That is the foundation of our democracy, and it is worth protecting.

As we head into July and August, I know these are some of the busiest and most demanding months for those who keep our local economy running — the people working long hours in our restaurants, shops, health care facilities, and public services to meet the crush of summer. It’s a time of celebration and fun in the sun, yes, but also one of hard work and hustle for so many. As we prepare to celebrate the 4th of July, let’s thank everyone who’s busting their butt out there to keep the Cape and Islands running as smoothly as possible.

Wishing you a safe and relaxing Independence Day,
Julian Cyr
Updates & Newsroom

Housing

New Plans for Housing at Seasonal Communities Meeting ([link removed]) - The Provincetown Independent

“In the coming decades, we’re going to have to figure out how to provide housing for almost all public employees” in many seasonal towns, said Cyr.

Healey Commends Hospital During Island Visit ([link removed]) - The Vineyard Gazette

“No challenge is greater, steeper and more urgent for Islanders and Cape Codders than housing," Mr. Cyr added.

Gov. Healey praises Navigator Home project during Island visit ([link removed]) - The Martha's Vineyard Times

"No challenge is greater and steeper and more urgent for Islanders and Cape Codders than housing,” said State Sen. Julian Cyr, a Provincetown Democrat who represents the Vineyard.

Unlocking Housing Production amendment passes 40-0 ([link removed]) - The Greenfield Recorder

“Together, these provisions are aimed at cutting red tape, lowering costs and accelerating the production of housing — particularly in high-need, geographically isolated regions like the Cape and Islands,” said amendment sponsor Sen. Julian Cyr, D-Provincetown. “Massachusetts was averaging 30,000 new homes annually as recently as the 1980s, when our population was much smaller. That number currently sits at about half, despite the increased need. The amendment passed unanimously … in a great show of bipartisan support.”
Speech: Unlocking Housing Production Amendment
[link removed]

LGBTQ+

A 1-on-1 with State Senator Julian Cyr ([link removed]) - NBC10 Boston

NBC10's Matt Prichard joined Senator Cyr in Provincetown for a walk-and-talk interview through town.

Celebrating "As Loudly As We Can" ([link removed]) - The Provincetown Independent

Sen. Julian Cyr made a rousing speech in front of the high-energy crowd. “Please, enjoy this revelry,” Cyr said. “Enjoy your queerness and allyship, and have a fabulous, wonderful, marvelous afternoon in this beautiful, special town.”

First Annual Lower Cape Pride Parade marches up Main Street in Orleans ([link removed]) - Cape Cod Times

State Senator Julian Cyr waves to the crowd lining Main Street Orleans marching in the first Lower Cape Pride Parade.

Lawmakers: Procedure that spiked transgender athlete ban "hit a nerve" ([link removed]) - WWLP

"I've been reassuring LGBTQ people and particularly trans folk that this policy was killed in the House. This policy was studied in the House, which kills it. It was dead on arrival in the Senate. And of course, it wouldn't be included in any conference committee, and I expect any sort of additional attempts to implement hateful, hateful politics that is exploiting some of the most vulnerable people that we have in this commonwealth — that's just not going to fly in this building," Sen. Julian Cyr of Provincetown, a member of the LGBTQ+ caucus, said.

Bills, Bills, Bills

Massachusetts ban on cell phones in public schools gains traction on Beacon Hill ([link removed]) - Boston 25 News

AG Campbell Testifies In Support Of The STUDY Act To Promote Safe Technology Use And Protect Youth Mental Health ([link removed]) - Mass.gov

“Young people today are navigating a digital world that's constantly demanding their attention, and it’s taking a real toll on their learning and mental health — and don't get me started on the utter cesspool that social media has become. The STUDY Act gives schools and educators the structure and support they need to manage personal device use and promote safe, focused learning environments. I am proud to partner with Attorney General Campbell and my colleagues in the Legislature on this effort to ensure our schools remain places where students can thrive, free from the pull of excessive screen time and the harmful effects of social media,” said State Senator Cyr.

Before lawmakers, Vineyard woman pleas for epinephrine access ([link removed]) - The Martha's Vineyard Times

The bill, filed earlier this year by state representative Thomas Moakley and state Senator Julian Cyr, addresses gaps in accessibility by allowing schools, restaurants, summer camps, athletic venues and other entities to stock EpiPens and provide them with legal protections.

Liquor laws in Massachusetts are complicated. Will these bills simplify them? ([link removed]) - The New Bedford Light

“I really appreciate that one size does not fit all,” Cyr said. He doesn’t want to force happy hour on towns that don’t want it, or allow discounts after 10 p.m. But, he thinks happy hour will “help provide local businesses who want to offer happy hour a boost, and bring a little more fun to a state that I think struggles with conviviality and night life options.”

Boston leaders attempt to revitalize nightlife despite legislative hurdles, community criticism ([link removed]) - The Daily Free Press

“The bill would allow cities and towns to opt in to permit discounted drink promotions through local ordinances,” Cyr said. “It would empower municipalities to choose what works best for them, given the needs of the community.”

Massachusetts license renewals impacted by unpaid debts ([link removed]) - The Boston Globe

“There is a real cycle of debt and legal entrapment,” Cyr said. “We need to catch up to a number of states who have already reformed or eliminated debt-based license suspensions.”

Where there is no will, there is no way ([link removed]) - The Martha's Vineyard Times

State Rep. Thomas Moakley has introduced legislation — co-signed by State Sen. Julian Cyr — that would, if enacted, require that the Island’s trial court be adequately staffed to ensure physical accessibility as well as language assistance when needed.

Farmers eye 'forever chemical' legislation ([link removed]) - Athol Daily News

NOFA is advocating for the passage of two PFAS bills this session. The first is a proposal by Rep. Kate Hogan, a Stow Democrat, and Sen. Julian Cyr, a Truro Democrat, to ban the sale of products containing PFAS, establish a fund to support the testing and treatment of contaminated drinking water and create a plan to phase out the use of sludge.

Justice & Immigration

ICE Targets Contractor Vans on Vineyard, Nantucket ([link removed]) - The Provincetown Independent

“This sort of sweeping enforcement is designed to provoke and instill fear in immigrant communities. This is not just about law enforcement and keeping our community safe. It’s about a political agenda to provoke fear and demonize the very people who are essential to the fabric and workings of our community,” Cyr said.

ICE arrests 12 in Nantucket, Massachusetts; lawmaker slams 'shameful' political move ([link removed]) - The Times of India

"It’s sad and it’s shameful to see the immigrants who make our communities function, particularly in these most busy summer months, be targeted, harassed, and in some cases forcibly removed from their families and lives just for a political agenda,” said Cyr.

Elected Officials Sound Off on ICE Raids ([link removed]) - Nantucket Current

Forty people rounded up by ICE on Martha's Vineyard, Nantucket ([link removed]) - Cape Cod Times

"The operation appears to have gone far beyond any targeted effort," Cyr said.

Immigration agents arrest 40 on Nantucket and Martha's Vineyard, state government slams ICE ([link removed]) - The Inquirer and Mirror

“It’s shameful to see the immigrants that literally make our islands function, particularly in these most busy summer months, be targeted, harassed and forcibly removed from their families and their work,” Cyr said.

Feds name Nantucket a "sanctuary jurisdiction," claim island defies immigration laws ([link removed]) - The Inquirer and Mirror

“I don’t see us having done anything differently than we’ve been doing for years,” Cyr said. “Aside from people like me who are not in law enforcement, condemning what I see as a dragnet that is flouting due process and constitutional rights that all persons in this country have, no matter their citizenship.”

Let's stand together with the Brazilian community to uphold the rule of law ([link removed]) - The Martha's Vineyard Times

“While federal officials continue to cite the arrest of two individuals with criminal histories, that does not justify these broad, indiscriminate tactics with little regard for due process,” Cyr said.

Cape parents report racial bias in schools to human rights board ([link removed]) - Cape Cod Times

"National politics has put hateful vengeful rhetoric front and center," said Cyr. "We clearly have work to do on Cape Cod, across Massachusetts, and certainly across this country when it comes to realizing liberty for all and justice both under the law and in society."
Legislative Corner

Joint Committee on Housing Hearings

We’ve officially entered the thick of hearing season up on Beacon Hill. The Joint Committee on Housing, of which I’m the Senate chair, had a packed month! We held two legislative hearings this month, during which we reviewed more than 60 bills focused on housing production, condominiums, public housing, and manufactured housing. These hearings are a vital step in our work to address the housing crisis in Massachusetts by advancing thoughtful, solutions-oriented legislation. I’m grateful to my House co-chair, Representative Richard Haggerty, for his steady partnership, and to our exceptional committee staff for their hard work in organizing these hearings and supporting our efforts. I look forward to continuing this critical work as we craft and advance housing policy that meets the urgency of the moment and ensures everyone in the Commonwealth has a safe and stable place to call home.

Flurry of Legislative Work

In addition to the committee work done on behalf of the housing committee, several of my bills were also heard before the legislative committees to which they’ve been assigned. From the Joint Committee on Financial Services to the Joint Committee on Cannabis Policy, I’ve been testifying on legislation whenever I can – whether from the ferry, the car, or in-person in the hearing rooms of the State House. Representing the Cape and Islands means staying on the move, but I remain grounded in my commitment to delivering results for Cape Codders and Islanders, both back home and under the Golden Dome. In the picture below, I am offering testimony before the Joint Committee on Municipalities and Regional Government, where I am, of course, a frequent flyer!

My colleague from the Cape & Islands Legislative Delegation, Representative Thomas Moakley, and I submitted testimony on our bill H.2500, An Act relative to increasing access to epinephrine. We also welcomed Megan Shai Brown – a constituent of ours and resident of Edgartown — to the State House for H.2500’s hearing. Megan is an extraordinary advocate who, following the unimaginable loss of her husband Michael Brown to an anaphylaxis-inducing wasp sting, first petitioned our offices to file this legislation. H.2500 would allow businesses where common allergens are present — like golf courses and restaurants — to obtain epinephrine auto-injectors for emergency use by trained staff. The bill offers a commonsense step that could make all the difference in those terrifying “just in case” moments. In addition to working with us to file this legislation, Megan also helped organize a day of advocacy for epinephrine access bills, which included a public training on how to administer this life-saving
medication. I’m so grateful to Megan for her partnership and her courage, and I’m hopeful that through her efforts, we can prevent future tragedies and make Massachusetts a safer place for those at risk of severe allergic reactions.
Budgets

June brought two updates on supplemental spending bills: the conference committee report of the Fair Share supplemental budget and the Senate debate of another supplemental budget focused on hospital and health care funding.

As you know, each spring, the Massachusetts Legislature passes a main budget bill that serves as the Commonwealth’s financial blueprint for the upcoming fiscal year, funding everything from public health to education to infrastructure. This annual budget is comprehensive and forward-looking, setting priorities based on projected revenues. In contrast, supplemental spending bills - often referred to as “supps” - are passed throughout the year to address urgent or unforeseen needs, such as emergency response, increased program costs, or new federal funds (or, as is the case this year, federal cuts). These supps allow the state to remain nimble and responsive, making mid-year adjustments to ensure that critical services are sustained and emerging challenges are met.

In the June newsletter ([link removed]) , I debriefed the Fair Share supplemental budget and the wins secured for the Cape & Islands in the Senate version of the bill. An appointed conference committee then negotiated the differences between the Senate and House versions of the bill (as happens with nearly every other large piece of legislation). Thankfully, all of my previously described wins were included in the final version of the bill that was then sent to Governor Healey for her signature!

Fair Share Budget passes with over $2M for Cape & Islands transportation, education and infrastructure - CapeCod.com ([link removed])

And on Monday, June 30, the Legislature voted to finalize the Fiscal Year 2026 General Appropriations Act—one full day ahead of the July 1 deadline. That might not sound very early, but this is the earliest we've reached agreement on a state budget in my decade serving in the Senate, and a clear sign of our shared commitment to getting things done. Stay tuned for next month's newsletter, where I’ll break down the investments we secured for Cape Cod, Martha’s Vineyard, and Nantucket.
Maternal Health Champion

I was deeply honored to receive a Maternal Health Champion award this month from the Bay State Birth Coalition, Mind the Gap Coalition, the Massachusetts Caucus of Women Legislators, and the Ellen Story Commission on Postpartum Depression. The award was presented during a powerful and informative legislative briefing that brought together state leaders, health care professionals, and community advocates to discuss the current state of maternal health in Massachusetts.

This recognition is meaningful, particularly as I served as Senate Chair of the Joint Committee on Public Health last session. In that role, I was proud to help advance last year’s maternal health omnibus bill, An Act promoting access to midwifery care and out-of-hospital birth options, landmark legislation that passed in 2024 to improve care, expand access, and reduce disparities in maternal health outcomes across the Commonwealth. We have more work to do to ensure every birthing person in Massachusetts receives the respectful, equitable, and comprehensive care they deserve—but I’m grateful for the partners and advocates pushing us forward together.
Shield Act 2.0

At the end of the month, the Senate passed S.2538, An Act strengthening health care protections in the Commonwealth, with a largely bipartisan vote of 37-3. This bill — which aims to expand the Shield Law passed in 2022 — makes remarkable strides in protecting patients and providers of reproductive and gender-affirming health care from out-of-state and federal interference. This legislation prohibits state agencies from cooperating with hostile investigations, safeguards parents of transgender youth, and protects access to essential medications and emergency services. We passed this bill on the very same day that the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that states can cut off Medicaid funding to Planned Parenthood, and one week after the Court upheld Tennessee’s ban on gender-affirming care for young people. The Trump administration and its allies are escalating attacks on bodily autonomy, reproductive freedom, and LGBTQ+ rights. While this legislation marks critical progress, our work is far from
over. My colleagues and I remain committed to ensuring that Massachusetts continues to be a safe haven for care grounded in dignity, science, and justice.
Latest Events: In the District and Beyond!
A day on Martha's Vineyard with Governor Healey

The weather may not have been perfect that day but the reception we received from Islanders certainly was for Governor Healey's recent visit to Martha's Vineyard. Representative Thomas Moakley and I joined the Governor for a tour of the new apartments located at 490 Edgartown-Vineyard Haven Road. This workforce housing development, created in partnership with Martha’s Vineyard Hospital, includes 76 bedrooms across 48 units for hospital staff. It’s a meaningful step toward addressing one of the most pressing issues facing island communities: the severe lack of affordable, year-round housing for essential workers.

This housing will help Martha’s Vineyard Hospital attract and retain the nurses, technicians, and support staff who provide critical care to Island residents and visitors. When healthcare workers can’t afford to live near the hospital, the entire system is strained. These new apartments will make a real difference.

Hospital President Denise Schepici and her team deserve deep thanks for their vision and persistence in making this project a reality. The many donors and partners who supported the effort understood what’s at stake: housing is about more than a roof over one’s head. It’s about stability, retention, and the sustainability of our workforce.

After touring the new workforce housing, Governor Healey, Representative Moakley and I met with leadership and staff at Martha’s Vineyard Hospital for a walk-through while we discussed how the state can better support this vital, geographically isolated institution.

As the Island’s only hospital, MVH provides essential care to both year-round residents and visitors. We heard about the unique challenges they face — seasonal demand, workforce shortages, and the strain of providing full-service care far from the mainland — and will continue to work together on solutions.
"The Kids Are All Right"

I visited Barnstable High School recently for their fourth annual Civic Action Project showcase, and I was genuinely impressed by the work students are doing. In teams of two or three, they tackled real-world issues that hit close to home, like the housing crisis, youth mental health, and substance use. Under a recently passed state law, all high school juniors and 8th graders must do a unit on civic engagement.

As Chair of the Joint Committee on Housing, I was especially excited to see several groups dive deep into the complex challenges around housing access and affordability on Cape Cod. Their ideas were thoughtful, informed, and rooted in a real desire to make a difference. Others focused on mental health and substance use among teens, a topic close to my heart from my time as Chair of the Joint Committee on Mental Health, Substance Use and Recovery.

What stood out most was how seriously these students are thinking about their communities and their futures. As someone who first got involved in politics as a high school student, it was heartening to see that same spark in them. These are the future leaders of our towns and cities, and they’re already asking the right questions.
Caring for our elders with Cape & Islands District Attorney Rob Galibois

I recently sat down with Cape & Islands District Attorney Robert Galibois to discuss elder care and the growing threats older adults face, particularly around fraud and financial exploitation. Too often, seniors are targeted by increasingly sophisticated scams that can have devastating consequences. We talked about how local and state partners can do more to prevent abuse, raise awareness, and ensure older adults have the tools and support they need to stay safe. Rob has been a tremendous partner in realizing a more effective and modern criminal justice system on the Cape & Islands. Stay tuned for more on this initiative in the fall.
District Attorney Seeks Funding For New Elder Abuse Program ([link removed])
A meeting with the Kennedy Donovan Center

I recently attended a meeting with the Kennedy Donovan Center (KDC), a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting families and individuals with developmental disabilities and delays. KDC provides a wide array of services, including early intervention, family support, adult foster care, and adult day services. During the meeting, KDC leadership presented an in-depth overview of the organization’s mission, programs, and the geographic distribution of its services provided on the Cape and Islands. We also discussed the specific challenges faced in delivering services to more remote areas, particularly the islands of Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket. Together, we brainstormed potential solutions to improve funding for transportation to ensure continuity of care for individuals and families in underserved communities.
Happy Pride 2025!

2025 marked the 8th annual Provincetown Pride, and what a Pride celebration it was! Thousands of people came from near and far to celebrate the resilience, creativity, and strength of our LGBTQ+ family. Pride in Provincetown keeps growing, not just in size but in purpose.

When the Provincetown Business Guild first announced an official Pride celebration back in 2018, a lot of people asked, “Why does Provincetown need Pride when it feels like Pride every day?” On the surface, that may seem a fair question. Provincetown is definitively one of the queerest, most affirming places in the country. But in 2025, the answer to that question couldn't be clearer.

For every step forward we make in justice and equality, the current federal administration seems intent on dragging us back two. That’s why I was proud to speak at the rally on the steps of Town Hall. I looked out at thousands of people standing shoulder to shoulder, showing up not just to celebrate, but to stand their ground.

I spoke about the urgency of this moment. We can’t afford to go quiet. We need to stay visible, stay organized, and keep pushing forward. Pride is more than a party; it’s an urgent movement for rights and dignity. And here in Provincetown, we aim to make that statement every day of the year.

A week after Provincetown Pride was the first-ever Lower Cape Pride, a weekend-long celebration that took place in Orleans and Brewster, which meant my entire family could come! I was so, well, proud to be joined by my parents, my sister Marissa, my sister-in-law Devin, my nephew and my niece for a joyous, colorful celebration and parade the likes of which are typically confined to Provincetown. And to top it all off, the Grand Marshalls of the parade were none other than Linda and Gloria Bailey-Davies, one of the seven courageous couples who sued the state in Goodrich v. Department of Public Health, the landmark case that made Massachusetts the first state in the nation to legalize same-sex marriage back in 2004. The Bailey-Davies have been together for 55 years now and it was an honor to march alongside them.

While Provincetown is often considered the de facto gay capital of the Cape, it was heartening to see Pride celebrated with such warmth and unity in other parts of our region. Pride in places like Orleans and Brewster helps send a powerful message: LGBTQ+ people belong everywhere. And when we show up for each other in our own communities, it makes a lasting difference.

Congratulations to organizers Rick and Joan Francolini and everyone who made Lower Cape Pride a success. I look forward to seeing this become a new tradition for years to come.

Once again, we raised the Pride Flag at the Massachusetts State House, an annual tradition that seemed to carry more weight this year than ever before. I am so grateful to Governor Maura Healey, my nine colleagues in the LGBTQ+ Caucus and all our friends and allies who stood outside in the heat with us for this special moment.

With a hostile federal administration rolling back rights, targeting LGBTQ+ communities, and stoking fear for political gain, gatherings like this are not just symbolic. They are necessary. Pride has never been about corporate sponsorships or rainbow logos slapped on beer cans for a few weeks. It is about visibility, resistance, and the resilience of our community in the face of rising hate. I feel so grateful to serve in a Legislature where I can be my authentic self.

Massachusetts has long led the way in protecting LGBTQ+ rights, and we will continue to do so. But we cannot take progress for granted. We must stay vigilant, show up for one another, and fight for a future where everyone is safe, affirmed, and free to live as themselves, not just during Pride Month, but every single day.

Right after the Pride flag was raised outside the State House, the celebration continued inside with the inaugural LGBTQ+ Resource Fair in the Great Hall of Flags. This event brought together nearly every LGBTQ+ organization in Massachusetts under one roof, each with a table staffed by folks ready to share what services and support are available to our community.

Hundreds of people came through the hall, many making connections to resources they hadn’t known were out there. It was great to see so many organizations in one space, all committed to making sure LGBTQ+ people in Massachusetts are supported, affirmed, and empowered.

A special shout out to my good friend and colleague Representative Sam Montaño, who helped organize the event. Sam, if you’re reading this: you were right about the ice cream.

While Pride events were underway at the State House, our office was also represented back home on Cape Cod. Our intern Jeralyn attended the first-ever Pride Picnic hosted by the Cape Cod LGBTQ+ Senior Friends at the Yarmouth Senior Center.

This joyful gathering brought together LGBTQ+ elders and allies for an afternoon of community, conversation, and connection. The mission of Cape Cod LGBTQ+ Senior Friends is a vital one: to ensure that older members of our community don’t face aging in isolation, but instead are surrounded by friendship, support, and belonging.
Juneteenth in Provincetown

Despite the absolutely horrendous traffic leaving Boston that day (please someone remind me next year not to hit the road on the morning of a holiday), I managed to make it back to Provincetown just in time for the annual Juneteenth community BBQ on the lawn of the Universalist Unitarian Universalist Meeting House on Commercial Street. Hosted by the incredibly talented Qya Cristál and James Jackson Jr., the event was filled with joy, reflection, and powerful performances, including a crowd-pleasing medley by up-and-coming local queen Devy Kendall.

Juneteenth is a time to reflect on the ongoing struggle for Black freedom and equity, and to recognize the contributions of Black Americans to our shared culture and history. It was a pleasure to mark the occasion in Provincetown with food, music, and community.
No Kings Protests June 14th

In June, people across the Cape and Islands joined millions of others across the country in the “No Kings” day of action — a mass mobilization against authoritarianism and the erosion of democratic norms. Here at home, protests were held in Eastham, Hyannis, Falmouth, Provincetown, Nantucket, and Martha’s Vineyard. I joined the crowd in Eastham with Representative Hadley Luddy, and while it was damp, no one flinched. We were there because the stakes are real. Just days earlier, federal agents detained almost 40 immigrant workers from the Vineyard and Nantucket, pulling them from trucks on their way to work in the early morning hours. These are our neighbors and coworkers. They cook our food, stock our shelves, clean our hotel rooms, care for our yards. We literally have no economy or community without them. They are essential to the soul of this region. I stand with our immigrant communities, and I won’t be silent while they’re targeted.
How do you solve a problem like Five Corners?

Five Corners is a busy intersection in Vineyard Haven that serves as a central hub for residents, businesses, and visitors on Martha’s Vineyard. Aside from the frequent flooding, if you’ve ever driven through the intersection you know you’re taking your life into your own hands. Managing traffic flow, safety, and future development here is crucial for the town’s quality of life and the island’s character.

Representative Thomas Moakley and I met with new Tisbury Town Administrator Joe LaCivita, Select Board Chair Christina Colarusso, and members of the Martha’s Vineyard Commission to discuss these challenges and opportunities. We had a productive conversation about balancing the needs of all stakeholders while planning thoughtful, sustainable improvements.
Now arriving: direct flights from Chicago, Philadelphia and beyond!

Cape Cod is officially more connected than ever. I joined Representative Kip Diggs at Cape Cod Gateway Airport to welcome the first passengers arriving on American Airlines’ new nonstop flight from Philadelphia. The arrival marked the launch of expanded seasonal service in and out of Hyannis.

American Airlines is now offering direct flights from Hyannis to Philadelphia daily through September 2 and to Chicago on Saturdays through August 30. These routes join existing service to New York’s LaGuardia and Washington’s Reagan National, making American the only airline providing nonstop flights from Hyannis to all four cities.

This expansion is great news for both residents and visitors. Flying directly into the Cape saves time, reduces highway traffic, and supports our local economy. I’m grateful to John Flores and the Cape Cod Gateway Airport team for continuing to strengthen our regional transportation network (and for making it so I can fly to visit friends in Chicago directly from Hyannis!).
The 29th annual Provincetown Portuguese Festival

It was good fun to take part in the 29th Annual Provincetown Portuguese Festival, observed annually on the last weekend in June. The festival is a beloved tradition that celebrates the deep and enduring influence of Portuguese culture on our town.

Alongside Representative Hadley Luddy, I spent that Friday afternoon under the tent at Bas Relief Park ladling out Portuguese kale soup, a staple dish with as many variations as there are cooks on the Outer Cape. More than 15 restaurants and shops, from Provincetown all the way to PJ’s in Wellfleet, shared their take on the classic. I won’t say in print who was my favorite, but I might just tell you if you ask me in person.

The Portuguese community’s legacy in Provincetown is visible in every corner of town, from the boats in the harbor to the menus in our restaurants. It was an honor to celebrate that history, and to join so many friends and neighbors in keeping these traditions alive.
Full Steam(ship Authority) ahead for a new GM

Representative Moakley and I recently met with members of the Citizens’ Action Group on Martha’s Vineyard to hear their concerns about the Steamship Authority (SSA)’s operations and leadership. They were pretty candid in sharing their frustrations, and we listened carefully.

Following that meeting, Representative Moakley and I reached out to the Steamship Authority to express our strong support for a transparent, inclusive hiring process as the SSA searches for its next general manager. We’ve urged them to cast a wide net and consider candidates from outside the organization and even beyond the region. As we discussed with the Coalition, many of the Authority’s long-standing challenges are rooted in management and administration, not in statute. Hiring the best possible leader is essential to setting a new course.

We’ve since been encouraged to learn that the SSA has brought in an international search firm and plans to hold public meetings as part of the hiring process, with opportunities for public comment and virtual access. That’s a promising sign. The settlement of all union negotiations ahead of the busy summer season is also a welcome development.

While the pace may feel slow, Thomas and I believe the hiring process is shaping up to be robust and thoughtful. Our delegation will stay engaged with SSA management, the board, and the public to ensure this search leads to real change. Islanders deserve a ferry system that is reliable, efficient, and worthy of the communities it serves.
When I was your age...

On Tuesday, June 10, I had the privilege of joining the Massachusetts Commission on LGBTQ+ Youth for the release of their FY26 policy recommendations. As someone who got my own start in public service as a member of this very Commission, it’s always meaningful to return to this space. I was especially proud to witness the swearing-in of new commission members—young people and advocates who will carry the torch forward at a time when their leadership is more needed than ever.

The moment we’re in demands clarity and resolve. Across the country, LGBTQ+ youth are being targeted through legislation, executive actions, and rhetoric that aim to undermine their rights and erase their presence. These efforts are coordinated and escalating—and they’re having real impacts on young people’s safety, mental health, and ability to thrive. In the face of this hostility at the federal level, Massachusetts must remain a place that meets these challenges with strong, clear-eyed policy and unwavering protections.

During my remarks, I shared some of the work we’ve done at the state level to protect and affirm LGBTQ+ youth—from banning conversion therapy for minors to advancing protections for providers of gender-affirming care. But the FY26 recommendations make clear that our responsibility doesn’t stop there. We need to expand access to timely, affirming mental health services, ensure LGBTQ+ youth in the child welfare and juvenile justice systems are supported, and respond directly to the housing insecurity that so many young people are facing across the Commonwealth.
Strangio Things

Representative Hadley Luddy and I had the opportunity to attend a powerful conversation featuring Chase Strangio, Deputy Director for Transgender Justice at the ACLU, as part of the Twenty Summers series. Chase is one of the nation’s most influential civil rights attorneys. His work was central to the Supreme Court case that secured protections for LGBTQ+ people under the Civil Rights Act—a landmark decision that continues to shape legal protections for queer and trans Americans.

A big thank you to Alice Gong and the entire Twenty Summers team and programming committee for centering trans voices and creating space for conversations like this. In a moment when trans rights are under attack across the country, it meant a great deal to join a community committed to justice, inclusion, and solidarity.
NORAM? Yes, ma'am!

I had the chance to speak at the opening ceremony of the North American (NORAM) Rugby tournament in Boston earlier this month. This biennial event—first held in North Carolina in 2023—is the largest inclusive rugby tournament in North America, bringing together LGBTQ+ teams and their allies to celebrate diversity, sportsmanship, and community. It was great to see athletes from across the continent come together to compete and showcase this fast-paced, fun-to-watch, sport.
Orville Peck & the Boston Pops

One of the true highlights of this Pride season for me was Pride Night with Orville Peck at the Boston Symphony Orchestra. Orville Peck’s performance alongside the Boston Pops was nothing short of spectacular. If you ever get the chance to see him perform, GO. You’ll thank me.

It was powerful to see an openly queer artist like Orville command the stage with such authenticity, backed by one of the most iconic orchestras in the world. The night was a celebration of queerness, artistry, and the joy that comes from seeing our stories reflected in culture at the highest level.

I have a rule against taking pictures or videos during concerts and incredible performances, so seriously, GO.
A very uncommon heroine

I was proud to recognize Mary-Jo Avellar of Provincetown as the Cape & Island District’s 2025 Commonwealth Heroine. Each Senator and Representative chooses a woman from their district who makes outstanding contributions to their communities and serves as a role model for the next generation.

Mary-Jo is a true pillar of Provincetown. Born and raised in town, she made the choice to stay, to serve, and to help shape the community she loves. Over the decades, she’s held multiple leadership roles, including as a longtime member of the Select Board and as Provincetown’s indefatigable Town Moderator. Town meetings can be a slog, but with Mary-Jo at the gavel, Provincetown is generally treated to a bit of a show.

Anyone who knows Mary-Jo also knows she’s as much a part of Provincetown’s cultural fabric as its political one. She’s a beloved manager and hostess at Bubala’s by the Bay, a Provincetown institution where her legendary homemade desserts are as much a reason to go as the people watching. Her presence, whether behind the microphone at Town Meeting or welcoming diners on Commercial Street, is part of what makes Provincetown, Provincetown.
Meet our interns!
We are so excited to welcome to our team for the summer two fantastic interns:

Meet Collin!

Collin McLean is working as a legal intern before entering his third year at Boston College Law School. After graduating from Salem Academy Charter School, he attended McGill University in Montreal, where he completed a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science. Before law school, Collin served as an AmeriCorps fellow with the United Way of Massachusetts Bay, as well as a project manager with Babson College. This summer, Collin looks forward to having the opportunity to engage with policy and legislative work at the State House.

Meet Jeralyn!

Jeralyn Osterloh was raised in Brewster and graduated from Nauset Regional High School (my alma mater). She is currently a student at the University of Massachusetts Amherst, where she completed her Bachelor of Science in Psychology and is finishing up a Master’s of Public Affairs. Jeralyn is also enrolled to start a Master’s in Finance with a Focus on Real Estate in the fall. She’s taking this opportunity to explore different areas of policy and to gain more knowledge and experience in the legislative process.
And Marilyn makes four!

Our team is thrilled to share some joyful news: our Chief of Staff, Kathleen Patrón, welcomed a beautiful baby girl into the world earlier last month! Marilyn Patrón was born on Tuesday, June 3rd, and she joins a loving family that now numbers four: Kathleen, her husband Ricardo, big brother Rafa, and baby Marilyn.

Anyone who’s worked with our office knows Kathleen is both the glue that holds everything together and the oil that keeps the train running. While she’s out on maternity leave for the next six months, we already feel the absence of her steady hand, and we’re counting the days until she’s back. In the meantime, we send all our love and congratulations to the Patron family on this exciting new chapter!

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