Rep. James Arciero recognizes Wendy Gloyd with Commonwealth Pride Award

Published on June 30, 2026 by The Lowell Sun

BOSTON — State Rep. James Arciero recognized Westford resident Wendy Gloyd with the Commonwealth Pride Award, a newly established annual event celebrating the achievements, leadership and contributions of Massachusetts’ LGBTQ+ community.

Arciero nominated Gloyd in recognition of her decades of service as a community builder and LGBTQ+ advocate whose work helped advance conversations, initiatives and community efforts that promote understanding and ensure that all residents feel valued and welcomed.

A lifelong Westford resident, Gloyd serves as vice chair of the Westford Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee, chair of the Commission on Disability, and a member of the Open Space and Recreation Plan Committee. She is a dedicated LGBTQ+ advocate who founded and leads Westford LGBTQ+ Friends & Allies, creating spaces for connection, support and community.

Gloyd’s advocacy extends throughout the region through her work with organizations including PFLAG Greater Boston, OUT MetroWest, and The Trevor Project, where she previously supported LGBTQ+ youths as a crisis counselor. She is also committed to youth empowerment, co-leading a Youth Toastmasters program that helps young people build confidence, communication skills, and leadership abilities.

“Wendy Gloyd exemplifies the spirit of service, compassion, and leadership that makes our communities stronger,” said Arciero. “Her commitment to building a more inclusive Westford and creating spaces where everyone feels respected and supported reflects the very values we celebrate through the Commonwealth Pride Awards. I am proud to recognize Wendy and thank her for the meaningful impact she continues to make.”

The inaugural Commonwealth Pride Awards: Celebrating LGBTQ+ Excellence on the Hill honored more than 110 individuals who have strengthened their communities and advanced equality throughout Massachusetts. The event will continue annually during Pride Month.

“We are proud to recognize all of the incredible LGBTQ+ leaders who make Massachusetts stronger every day. Here in Massachusetts, we’ve been leading the nation in the fight for freedom over generations. It began 251 years ago when we started a revolution that spearheaded our nation’s democracy, and has continued as the state that led on abolition, women’s rights, Civil Rights, and LGBTQ+ rights,” said Gov. Maura Healey. “Today, we’re proud to be the state at the forefront of our nation’s freedoms and we will continue to ensure that Massachusetts remains a safe and welcoming place for all. We’re grateful to the LGBTQ+ Caucus for recognizing the impact of our state’s LGBTQ+ trailblazers, and offer a deep congratulations to the inaugural group of Commonwealth Pride awardees!”

Massachusetts has long been a national leader in advancing LGBTQ+ rights and inclusion, including becoming the first state in the nation to grant marriage licenses to same-sex couples in 2004. Through the continued advocacy and leadership of community members like Wendy Gloyd, Massachusetts remains a place where residents can live openly, authentically, and with dignity.