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Welcome to the June newsletter from State Representative Tara Hong's office! We're thrilled to share some exciting updates and plans for the coming months. |
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Left: Greater Lowell Tech Students in the House Chamber.
Right: Robinson Middle School Ambassadors in the House Chamber. |
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As the month of June comes to a close, I want to take a moment to reflect on everything we have experienced together as a community.
June has been a busy month. Summer has officially arrived, bringing both hot days and rainy weather, but more importantly, it has brought countless opportunities for our community to come together. Throughout the month, I have had the privilege of attending events across our district, celebrating the incredible diversity, resilience, and generosity that make our community so special. Every event has reminded me why I am so proud to call this district home.
What has stood out to me the most this month is not just the many celebrations we have shared, but also how our community has responded during moments of disagreement and uncertainty. Over the past several months, there has been a great deal of discussion and noise surrounding one particular issue. While there have certainly been strong opinions expressed, I have been incredibly encouraged by the many residents who have chosen a different path—one rooted in respect, understanding, and dialogue.
I have met so many people who have taken the time to sit down, ask thoughtful questions, listen to different perspectives, and have honest conversations before forming conclusions. That is what democracy should look like. We do not have to agree on every issue, but we should always be willing to listen to one another with respect. Our community becomes stronger when we choose conversation over division, understanding over assumptions, and facts over anger.
Unfortunately, in today's world it has become far too easy to point fingers, attack one another on social media, or allow disagreements to divide us. I believe we are better than that. The people of the 18th Middlesex District have shown me time and again that even when we hold different opinions, we can still treat each other with dignity, compassion, and respect. That gives me hope for the future.
I am incredibly honored to serve as your State Representative because I know this district is filled with compassionate, thoughtful, and hardworking people who genuinely care about making our community stronger. Together, we understand that while one issue may generate headlines or controversy, there are much larger challenges that deserve our attention and our partnership. Families continue to struggle with the rising cost of living. Students and educators deserve continued investment and support. Small businesses need opportunities to grow and succeed. Our seniors, veterans, immigrant families, and working people deserve a government that listens and delivers results.
These are the priorities that continue to guide my work every single day.
Over the past year and a half during my first term, I have remained committed to being accessible, responsive, and focused on delivering real results for our community. Whether it is helping constituents navigate state services, securing funding for local organizations and schools, advocating for affordable housing, protecting immigrant families, investing in education, improving public health, supporting small businesses, or bringing critical infrastructure improvements back to our district, my focus has always been on serving every resident with integrity and dedication.
None of this work is possible alone. It is only possible because of the partnerships we have built together—with residents, community organizations, local leaders, educators, advocates, and volunteers who share the same vision of building a stronger and more welcoming community for everyone.
One of the things I am most proud of is that our district continues to demonstrate that we can come together despite our differences. We are a unique community with people from many different backgrounds, cultures, and experiences. That diversity is one of our greatest strengths. It reminds us that our differences should never divide us—they should inspire us to learn from one another and work together toward common goals.
As we look ahead to July and prepare for the next legislative session, I remain as motivated as ever. The work we have started is far from finished, and I remain committed to continuing to fight for the issues that matter most to our community. I will continue working every day to bring more resources home, strengthen our neighborhoods, advocate for policies that improve people's lives, and ensure that every resident has a voice on Beacon Hill.
Thank you for continuing to place your trust in me. Thank you for your support, your feedback, your conversations, and your partnership. It is truly the honor of my life to serve the people of the 18th Middlesex District.
I hope everyone has a safe, enjoyable, and restful summer, and see you next month!
Tara Hong
State Representative
18th Middlesex District |
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Also on June 5, I checked out Khmer Krom community at Arati Adult Daycare to honor and remember the 77th anniversary of Kampuchea Krom transitioning from French territory to Vietnamese control. Thank you to the Khmer Krom Cultural Association of New England for putting together this meaningful event. |
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Lastly, I stopped by to support our amazing friend Maxine at the Lowell Senior Center Art Exhibit Reception. It is always great to see talented local artists and meaningful artwork on display. I encourage everyone to check it out the next time they host an exhibit. |
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June 8 - I attended the ribbon cutting at Hadley Park Playground on Middlesex Street.
This park has always been an important place for our community to gather, play, and enjoy time together, and I am so happy and honored to be part of reopening this newly upgraded playground area for everyone to enjoy.
I hope everyone has a wonderful summer and takes the opportunity to enjoy this beautiful community space together! |
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June 11 - I took part in the Massachusetts State House Summer Intern Speakers Series. I was happy to share my story about how I came into public service as State Representative for the 18th Middlesex District, as well as answer the interns’ insightful questions.
The speakers series is a collaborative effort between the House Committee on Human Resources and the Senate Office of Education and Civic Engagement. Summer interns at the state house hear from a variety speakers from across the state government, including elected officials, advocates and lobbyists, state agencies, and more. Speakers provide their unique perspective and experience to inspire the next generation of public servants and policy makers. |
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June 13 - I was honored to join the ribbon-cutting ceremony for the new Veterinary Science Program at Greater Lowell Technical High School. This program will provide amazing hands-on learning opportunities for students interested in animal care, veterinary medicine, and related careers. Big congratulations to Greater Lowell Technical High School on this outstanding accomplishment and for continuing to create new pathways to success for the next generation! |
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June 13 was also Lowell Pride! I joined many of our community members, advocates, families, and friends for the Greater Lowell Pride Flag Raising at City Hall and the Pride Festival at Lowell Heritage State Park.
Pride is a celebration of love, inclusion, diversity, and the freedom for everyone to be their authentic selves. It was inspiring to see so many people come together to support and uplift our LGBTQ+ community. |
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Thank you to everyone who helped organize this amazing event and to all who attended to make it such a special day.
Lowell is strongest when we celebrate and embrace the diversity that makes our community so vibrant.Happy Pride Month! |
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June 18 - I celebrated Claire Folsom with an inaugural Commonwealth Pride Award, a newly-founded annual event that celebrates the rich accomplishments and talents of Massachusetts’ LGBTQ+ community. Claire was the first person to come to mind when my office was presented with an opportunity to recognize someone from Lowell’s LGBTQ+ community. She is a small business owner of two stores: Over the Spoon located at the Hive Market in downtown, and Cafe Eclipse located in the Acre neighborhood. Claire is also deeply engaged in the Lowell community—she is active in local, state, and national issues, she is a member of the Lowell Democratic City Committee, and she assists in planning events for Lowell’s queer community. |
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We are so fortunate that Claire has chosen Lowell as her home—both for herself and her small businesses!
Going forward, Commonwealth Pride is slated to occur annually during Pride Month. This year’s event honored 110+ community leaders, each nominated by their state legislators.
Nominees spanned an enormous breadth of achievement and included public servants, advocates, doctors, authors, filmmakers, educators, historians, entrepreneurs, and religious leaders, highlighting the collective impact of the LGBTQ+ community. |
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June 19 - the team from the Lowell Community Health Center was at the State House advocating for increased support for community health centers in Lowell and across the Commonwealth. Community health centers play an important role in providing affordable, accessible, and culturally responsive healthcare to thousands of residents, regardless of their ability to pay. Community health centers help families access primary care, behavioral health services, dental care, preventive screenings, and other essential resources that keep our communities healthy and strong. I was proud to stand alongside their team and as there patient as they shared the importance of continued investment in community health centers and the critical work they do every day. Together, we must continue fighting to ensure that everyone has access to quality healthcare close to home. |
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June 20 - Congratulations to the International Institute of New England on the grand opening of their new building at 585 Middlesex Street in Lowell!
The International Institute of New England is an incredible organization dedicated to serving refugees, immigrants, and newcomers by providing essential resources, support, and opportunities to help them build successful lives in our community.
Our community is strongest when we come together with respect, compassion, and a shared commitment to helping one another succeed. Wishing you continued success in this exciting new chapter! https://iine.org/ |
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Also taking place on June 20 was the Lowell African Festival! It was wonderful to join our community in celebrating African culture, traditions, music, and food. Thank you to all the organizers and volunteers for making this special event possible. Always a great and fun festival! |
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June 24 - we recognized the contributions of women from across the Commonwealth at the 23rd annual Commonwealth Heroine Celebration hosted by the Massachusetts Commission on the Status of Women.
I was proud to nominate Susie In-Chhoun to be recognized this year as a Commonwealth Heroine from the 18th Middlesex District. Susie has worked as a teaching assistant at Lowell Community Charter Public School for over 25 years, she served on the Lowell School Committee from 2022-2023, and she volunteers at community events such as the Khmer New Year celebrations and the annual Clemente Park Volleyball Tournament. Susie also serves as one of the hosts of Voice of Democracy, a Khmer-language show that provides the Cambodian community with information about current events. Lowell is fortunate to be called home by someone with Susie’s dedication to the community, and her fierce advocacy for democracy both at home and abroad.
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June 26 - Congratulations and a big thank you to Norris “Bucky” Chew on an incredible 50 years of service with the Lowell Regional Transit Authority!
Bucky's dedication to serving our community and making public transportation more accessible and reliable has made a lasting difference. During his career, Bucky logged over 750,000 miles and served generations of riders — his commitment and hard work is truly inspiring.
I wish Bucky a very happy retirement! |
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The Joint Committee on Community Development and Small Businesses Comes to Lowell to Taste the Acre |
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The tour begins at Sophia's Greek Pantry. Left to Right: Lyzzie Bo of Taste the Acre, Senator John Keenan (Quincy), Rep. Tara Hong (Lowell),
Rep. Andres Vargas (Haverhill), Rep.Tackey Chan (Quincy), Jessica O'Hearn of Mosaic Lowell |
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Also on June 20 I was delighted to be joined by my colleagues from the State House to go on a
Taste the Acre tour. The tour was hosted by Lyzzie Bo of the Taste the Acre, and Jessica O'Hearn of Mosaic Lowell.
Joining us on the tour was the House Chair of the Joint Committee on Community Development and Small Businesses, Rep. Andres Vargas, and committee member Senator John Keenan. |
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Additionally, Rep. Tackey Chan joined the tour, along with staff members from Senator Vanna Howard's office.
The tour began at Sophia's Greek Pantry, then to Laos Thai Kitchen, Golden Tea, Tasty Dumplings, and we finished up with sushi, noodles and dessert at Oshare Sushi + Bar. |
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I am grateful to Lyzzie and Jessica for helping us highlight the abundance of amazing grocery stores, cafes, and restaurants in Lowell's Acre neighborhood.
If you'd like to go on a
Taste the Acre food tour, you can check out their upcoming dates by clicking here.
Thank you to my colleagues and their staff for joining. I hope you come back soon! |
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Left: Rep. Vargas and his staff, Sasha and Nik, enjoy dumplings at Tasty Dumplings. Right: Oshare's delicious Santaka Beef Noodle bowl. |
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Lowell Schools Visit the State House |
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Greater Lowell Technical High School |
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June 5 - It was wonderful to welcome students from Greater Lowell Technical High School to the State House for a tour of the People’s House.Thank you to State Senator Vanna Howard for sharing her experience and the important work she does to inspire the next generation of leaders. I was also honored to share my own story and some of the history of the building with the students.It was truly amazing to see their excitement and energy while visiting the State House and learning more about government and public service. These moments remind us why it is so important to continue engaging and inspiring our young people. |
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Left: Greater Lowell Tech stops for a picture on the balcony facing Beacon Street.
Right: Students were given a tour of Governor Healey's ceremonial office. |
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Robinson Middle School Ambassadors |
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June 17 - I had the pleasure of meeting with a group of Student Ambassadors from Robinson Middle School. Taking these young people around the State House and seeing them explore the wonders of the House Chamber, Governor’s office and Member’s lounge reminded me of my first time stepping into this building full of awe and a deep sense of responsibility. The Ambassadors also got to meet with State Senator Vanna Howard, who helped with hosting this amazing tour. |
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It was really great to host the Robinson School Ambassadors! I look forward to continuing to engage with the next generation of leaders.
Thanks for visiting Robinson Middle School - have a great summer! |
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Check Out my Video Updates from the State House! |
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Questions About the Audit?
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When I took the oath of office on January 1, 2025, I swore not only to serve the people of my district, but also to support and uphold the Constitution of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. That oath is one that I take very seriously, and it guides every vote I cast and every decision I make as your State Representative.
Over the past several months, there has been significant discussion regarding the State Auditor's effort to conduct an audit of the Massachusetts Legislature following the passage of Question 1 in 2024. I understand why many residents have questions about this issue, and I believe those questions deserve thoughtful and honest answers.
First, I want to be clear: I supported Question 1 because I believe transparency and accountability are essential to maintaining public trust in government. The voters spoke clearly, and it is our responsibility to respect that vote.
However, it is also our responsibility to ensure that any law enacted must complies with the Massachusetts Constitution. While the goal of greater transparency is one I share, we must also protect the constitutional principle of the separation of powers.
Our Commonwealth was founded on a system in which the legislative, executive, and judicial branches are co-equal, with each branch having its own constitutional responsibilities and limitations. No single branch should exercise authority over another beyond what the Constitution permits.
That is why the House of Representatives worked to pass Bill H.5469. The purpose of this legislation is to honor the intent of Question 1 while ensuring that any changes are implemented in a manner that is consistent with our Constitution. The bill reflects the issues discussed during the proceedings before the Supreme Judicial Court and seeks to provide a constitutionally sound framework for increasing transparency.
One aspect of the legislation that has not received enough attention is its significant expansion of public access. For the first time in the history of the Massachusetts Legislature, the bill establishes a formal public records process for the Legislature by creating a dedicated office to receive, process, and respond to public records requests. This represents a meaningful step toward greater transparency and accountability while respecting the constitutional structure of our state government.
I encourage everyone to take the time to read the bill in its entirety. Public discussion is strongest when it is based on the full text of legislation rather than headlines, social media posts, or political rhetoric. It is important that we understand both what the bill does and why it was written the way it was.
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MassReady Act: What it Means for Lowell |
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The MassReady Act is an environmental and climate resilience bond bill that makes long-term investments in infrastructure projects across Massachusetts.
Included in the bill is $1.5 million for the City of Lowell to support culvert restoration and drainage infrastructure improvements. This funding will help modernize our stormwater systems, reduce flooding risks, protect homes and roads, and strengthen our community's resilience to severe weather and climate change.
These are important investments that will help keep Lowell safe, sustainable, and prepared for the future.I am proud to support this funding and will continue working to bring resources back to Lowell for critical infrastructure improvements. |
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Things to Know, Things to Do |
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Lowell Folk Festival is Almost Here! |
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It will be here sooner than you know it - The 2026 Lowell Folk Fest is happening from Friday, July 24th through Sunday, July 26th! Lowell Folk Fest is one of the largest
free festivals in the country, and offers three days of cuisine, arts, music and more! I hope to see you there! |
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On July 1st Dr. Robert Forrant will be giving a talk about immigration history in Lowell. This event will take place at the Pollard Memorial Library Community Room, in the lower level of the building.
Using his vast knowledge gained through decades of research, Dr. Forrant will explain the ebbs and flows of immigration here, and how it continues today.
Learn more at solidaritylowell.com. Co-hosted by Indivisible Lowell, Merrimack Valley Project, Indivisible Chelmsford Connected, and the Peacemakers Network. |
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SUMMER EATS KICKS OFF JULY 8TH!
From July 8 through August 14, kids and teens can enjoy FREE healthy lunches at open Summer Eats sites across Massachusetts. Merrimack Valley Food Bank is proud to provide nutritious lunches at five sites right here in Lowell, helping ensure local children have access to healthy meals all summer long.
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It’s back - the 2026 DCR Park Passport Challenge is here! From June 20 through November 1, the Massachusetts Department of Recreation and Conservation invites adventurers of all ages to discover the beauty and history of Massachusetts state parks, forests, and watersheds. Explore the outdoors, learn about the environment, connect with the Commonwealth’s nature and history—all while collecting stamps to earn a prize!
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Massachusetts residents with an active passenger vehicle registration can enter for free through the myRMV Online Service Center from June 15 through August 14, 2026.
A total of 237 low-number plates will be awarded through a random lottery. Winners will be notified by September 15, 2026.
To learn more and apply, visit the RMV website.
https://www.mass.gov/2026-annual-low-number-plate-lottery |
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Weekly Yard Waste Collection Is Back!
The weekly yard waste collection has returned. The frequency schedule will run as follows:
Weekly Pickup until May 22
June 1 - October 2 (Bi-Weekly Pickup)
October 5 - December 18 (Weekly Pickup)
Click Here to learn more about hard waste collection on the City's Facebook page. |
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HEAP funding is officially here to help families stay warm this winter.
Need heating system repairs or a replacement? HEAP also supports HEARTWAP, which provides free repair or replacement for qualifying households.
Apply online: toapply.org/MassHEAP
Learn more about HEARTWAP: mass.gov/HEARTWAP
Scan the QR code in the graphic to get started. Please share so neighbors who need support can apply! If you have any other questions, reach out anytime! |
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Great news for Lowell and our region!
The Fare Free Transit Pilot Program has been extended through September 30, 2026 on the Lowell Regional Transit Authority (LRTA)! This means more accessibility, more savings, and more opportunities for our community to get where they need to go.Public transportation should be affordable and accessible for everyone—and this program is a big step forward.
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The Behavioral Health Help Line (BHHL) provides free, 24/7, no insurance required, confidential support by call, text, or chat in 200+ languages for residents experiencing mental health or substance use concerns. BHHL provides warm hand-offs and follow-ups, identifying appropriate services to address a wide range of needs from crisis intervention to routine mental health support. The BHHL is staffed by trained mental health professionals with 24/7 clinical supervision. The BHHL connects patients to CBHCs, BHUCs, and other local providers, to reduce ED visits connecting people to specialized support faster.
How can Massachusetts residents’ access BHHL’s resources?
•Call or text 833-773-2445 (BHHL)
•Start a chat at masshelpline.com/chat
•Access online: masshelpline.com |
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As we gear up to celebrate the City of Lowell’s Bicentennial in 2026, we’re inviting you to share your memories with us! Whether it’s a family story, a moment from growing up in the city, your time working or serving in the community, or any Lowell connection that’s meaningful to you—we want to hear it!Select stories will be featured on the new Lowell Bicentennial website as part of this once-in-a-lifetime celebration.
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The School Bus Lookup Tool is now updated and live. (Note: charter and private school students are not included in the bus lookup tool). Student bus passes will be mailed out.
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As always, we love to hear from you! Please reach out any time.
Email: tara.hong@mahouse.gov
Phone: 617-722-2080
Cell: 978-421-5079
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