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{{short description|none}} <!-- "none" is preferred when the title is sufficiently descriptive; see ] --> {{short description|none}} <!-- "none" is preferred when the title is sufficiently descriptive; see ] -->
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The ] community in ] is one of the ]' most prominent, especially within the ], alongside those of ] and ], and holds a significant role in the progression of gay rights in the country. With a population of around 3 million, Chicago is the third biggest city in the US, and around 150,000 of those people identify as lesbian, bisexual, gay, transgender, questioning, or other.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Ali |first=Tanveer |date=2018-03-30 |title=146,000 Chicago adults identify as LGBT: city study |url=https://chicago.suntimes.com/2018/3/30/18329042/146-000-chicago-adults-identify-as-lgbtq-city-study |access-date= |website=Chicago Sun-Times |language=}}</ref> The ] community in ] is one of the United States' most prominent, especially within the ], alongside those of San Francisco and New York City, and holds a significant role in the progression of gay rights in the country. With a population of around 3&nbsp;million, Chicago is the third biggest city in the US, and around 150,000 of those people identify as lesbian, bisexual, gay, transgender, questioning, or other.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Ali |first=Tanveer |date=2018-03-30 |title=146,000 Chicago adults identify as LGBT: city study |url=https://chicago.suntimes.com/2018/3/30/18329042/146-000-chicago-adults-identify-as-lgbtq-city-study |access-date=14 September 2024 |website=Chicago Sun-Times |language=}}</ref>


]<nowiki/>s in Chicago have existed since the 1920s, when there was homosexual nightlife in ], adjacent to the ]. Increasing rents during the middle of the 20th century forced gay-friendly establishments steadily northwards, moving through ] and ] along ] and on to ]. ]s in Chicago have existed since the 1920s, when there was homosexual nightlife in ], adjacent to the ]. Increasing rents during the middle of the 20th century forced gay-friendly establishments steadily northwards, moving through ] and ] along ] and on to ].


Boystown presently serves as the best-known Chicago gayborhood and as a center of its LGBT culture.<ref>{{cite book |last= Blackwell |first= Elizabeth Canning |title= Frommer's Chicago |series= ] Color Complete |location= Hoboken, NJ |publisher= ] |year= 2012 |edition= 17th |isbn= 978-1-118-16241-5 |url= https://archive.org/details/isbn_9781118017203 |url-access= registration |page= |via= Internet Archive}}</ref> In recent years, the area has been criticized for focusing on "affluent white gay men," rather than the broader ] community.<ref name="Critique">{{Cite web |last=Rhodes |first=Adam |date=2020-11-25|title='We're not asking for any more than what we are already deserved' |url=https://chicagoreader.com/news-politics/were-not-asking-for-any-more-than-what-we-are-already-deserved/|access-date=2023-08-31 |website=Chicago Reader |language=en}}</ref> ] has pushed many LGBT people to reside ever further north into ], ] and ].<ref>{{Cite web |date=2012-02-24 |title=Watch out Boystown, Rogers Park becoming the new gayborhood |url=https://www.chicagotribune.com/redeye/ct-redeye-xpm-2012-02-24-31096890-story.html |access-date=2022-10-04 |website=Chicago Tribune}}</ref> Boystown presently serves as the best-known Chicago gayborhood and as a center of its LGBT culture.<ref>{{cite book |last=Blackwell |first=Elizabeth Canning |title=Frommer's Chicago |series=] Color Complete |location=Hoboken, NJ |publisher=] |year=2012 |edition=17th |isbn=978-1-118-16241-5 |url=https://archive.org/details/isbn_9781118017203 |url-access=registration |page= |via=Internet Archive}}</ref> In recent years, the area has been criticized for focusing on "affluent white gay men," rather than the broader ] community.<ref name="Critique">{{Cite web |last=Rhodes |first=Adam |date=2020-11-25 |title='We're not asking for any more than what we are already deserved' |url=https://chicagoreader.com/news-politics/were-not-asking-for-any-more-than-what-we-are-already-deserved/ |access-date=2023-08-31 |website=Chicago Reader |language=en |archive-date=September 27, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230927013731/https://chicagoreader.com/news-politics/were-not-asking-for-any-more-than-what-we-are-already-deserved/ |url-status=live }}</ref> ] has pushed many LGBT people to reside ever further north into ], ] and ].<ref>{{Cite web |date=2012-02-24 |title=Watch out Boystown, Rogers Park becoming the new gayborhood |url=https://www.chicagotribune.com/redeye/ct-redeye-xpm-2012-02-24-31096890-story.html |access-date=2022-10-04 |website=Chicago Tribune |archive-date=March 31, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230331100629/https://www.chicagotribune.com/redeye/ct-redeye-xpm-2012-02-24-31096890-story.html |url-status=live }}</ref>


== History == == History ==
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=== 19th century === === 19th century ===
In 1889, social reformer and activist ] opened Chicago's first settlement house, the Chicago ]. The purpose of it was to offer social reform for the community during the ] when many immigrants required help. ] had at least two same sex relationships over a long period of time. One of them was with ], a Chicago born philanthropist.<ref>{{cite web |title=Jane Addams Hull-House Museum |url=https://www.hullhousemuseum.org/hullhouse-blog/2022/6/27/jane-addams-amp-mary-rozet-smith-more-than-gal-pals#:~:text=Jane%20Addams%20never%20married%20and,co%2Dfounder%20Ellen%20Gates%20Starr. |access-date=31 January 2024 |website=Hullhouse Museum | date=June 29, 2022 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Hull-House |url=https://www.nps.gov/places/hull-house.htm#:~:text=In%201889%2C%20Jane%20Addams%20and,hub%20of%20the%20United%20States. |access-date=31 January 2024 |website=National Park Service }}</ref> In 1889, social reformer and activist ] opened Chicago's first settlement house, the Chicago ]. The purpose of it was to offer social reform for the community during the ] when many immigrants required help. ] had at least two same sex relationships over a long period of time. One of them was with ], a Chicago born philanthropist.<ref>{{cite web |title=Jane Addams Hull-House Museum |url=https://www.hullhousemuseum.org/hullhouse-blog/2022/6/27/jane-addams-amp-mary-rozet-smith-more-than-gal-pals |access-date=31 January 2024 |website=Hullhouse Museum |date=June 29, 2022 |archive-date=February 3, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240203040023/https://www.hullhousemuseum.org/hullhouse-blog/2022/6/27/jane-addams-amp-mary-rozet-smith-more-than-gal-pals |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Hull-House |url=https://www.nps.gov/places/hull-house.htm |access-date=31 January 2024 |website=National Park Service |archive-date=February 3, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240203040022/https://www.nps.gov/places/hull-house.htm |url-status=live }}</ref>


=== 20th century === === 20th century ===
During the 1920s and 1930s, Chicago, like other major urban centers, experienced what was called the ], when LBGTQ visibility greatly opened up.<ref name=":0">{{cite news |last1=Reed |first1=Betsy |title=Pansy Craze: the wild 1930s drag parties that kickstarted gay nightlife |url=https://www.theguardian.com/music/2017/sep/14/pansy-craze-the-wild-1930s-drag-parties-that-kickstarted-gay-nightlife |access-date=31 January 2024 |newspaper=The Guardian |date=September 14, 2017 }}</ref> Gay cabarets were established and nightclubs had a steady demand. By the 1930s there were at least 35 pansy parlors. These clubs were so busy that some of them, like "Diamond Lil's" had to turn people away.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Fleeson |first1=Lucina |date=2007-06-27 |title=The Gay '30s |url=https://www.chicagomag.com/chicago-magazine/november-2005/the-gay-30s/ |website=Chicagomag}}</ref> During the 1920s and 1930s, Chicago, like other major urban centers, experienced what was called the ], when LBGTQ visibility greatly opened up.<ref name=":0">{{cite news |last1=Reed |first1=Betsy |title=Pansy Craze: the wild 1930s drag parties that kickstarted gay nightlife |url=https://www.theguardian.com/music/2017/sep/14/pansy-craze-the-wild-1930s-drag-parties-that-kickstarted-gay-nightlife |access-date=31 January 2024 |newspaper=The Guardian |date=September 14, 2017 }}</ref> Gay cabarets were established and nightclubs had a steady demand. By the 1930s there were at least 35 pansy parlors. These clubs were so busy that some of them, like "Diamond Lil's" had to turn people away.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Fleeson |first1=Lucina |date=2007-06-27 |title=The Gay '30s |url=https://www.chicagomag.com/chicago-magazine/november-2005/the-gay-30s/ |website=Chicagomag |access-date=February 3, 2024 |archive-date=February 11, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210211004954/https://www.chicagomag.com/chicago-magazine/november-2005/the-gay-30s/ |url-status=live }}</ref>


In 1924, the first American gay rights organization, the ], was established by German immigrant and Chicago resident ]. Gerber was inspired by similar institutions back in Germany and wanted to recreate one in Chicago. Its purpose was to defend the rights of people who have disabilities or were abused. On December 10, 1924, the state of ] officially recognized the society. Although it was shut down not long after, it made an impact, as gays and lesbians were seen to be more open near the ] area.<ref>{{cite web |title=LGBTQ Activism: The Henry Gerber House, Chicago, IL |url=https://www.nps.gov/articles/lgbtq-activism-henry-gerber-house-chicago-il.htm |access-date=31 January 2024 |website=National Park Service }}</ref> In 1924, the first American gay rights organization, the ], was established by German immigrant and Chicago resident ]. Gerber was inspired by similar institutions back in Germany and wanted to recreate one in Chicago. Its purpose was to defend the rights of people who have disabilities or were abused. On December 10, 1924, the state of ] officially recognized the society. Although it was shut down not long after, it made an impact, as gays and lesbians were seen to be more open near the ] area.<ref>{{cite web |title=LGBTQ Activism: The Henry Gerber House, Chicago, IL |url=https://www.nps.gov/articles/lgbtq-activism-henry-gerber-house-chicago-il.htm |access-date=31 January 2024 |website=National Park Service |archive-date=February 3, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240203040022/https://www.nps.gov/articles/lgbtq-activism-henry-gerber-house-chicago-il.htm |url-status=live }}</ref>


In the second half of the 20th century, more gay communities were established, centered around Clark Street. These neighborhoods would later develop into ] (Northalsted) and ].<ref>{{Cite web |title=LGBTQ Chicago: Northalsted – Boystown |url=https://chicagopride.gopride.com/boystown.cfm |access-date=2024-02-02 |website=ChicagoPride.com |language=EN}}</ref> On July 28, 1961, Illinois became the first state to abolish sodomy laws as part of a package to revise old criminal laws.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2003-06-26 |title=Getting Rid of Sodomy Laws: History and Strategy that Led to the Lawrence Decision |url=https://www.aclu.org/documents/getting-rid-sodomy-laws-history-and-strategy-led-lawrence-decision |access-date=2024-02-16 |website=American Civil Liberties Union |language=en-US}}</ref> Along with this rise in LGBT population came increasingly frequent police raids which led to arrests for actions such as cross dressing. Groups like the ] attempted to meet with the police and negotiate the arrests, but to no avail.<ref>{{cite book |last1=de la Croix |first1=St. Sukie |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=44lheqlq-jYC&dq=chicago+lgbt+history&pg=PR7 |title=Chicago Whispers: A History of LGBT Chicago Before Stonewall |date=2012 |publisher=The University of Wisconsin |isbn=978-0-299-28694-1 |location=1930 Monroe St. |access-date=31 January 2024}}</ref> In the second half of the 20th century, more gay communities were established, centered around Clark Street. These neighborhoods would later develop into ] (Northalsted) and ].<ref>{{Cite web |title=LGBTQ Chicago: Northalsted – Boystown |url=https://chicagopride.gopride.com/boystown.cfm |access-date=2024-02-02 |website=ChicagoPride.com |language=EN |archive-date=October 26, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211026214438/https://chicagopride.gopride.com/boystown.cfm |url-status=live }}</ref> On July 28, 1961, Illinois became the first state to abolish sodomy laws as part of a package to revise old criminal laws.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2003-06-26 |title=Getting Rid of Sodomy Laws: History and Strategy that Led to the Lawrence Decision |url=https://www.aclu.org/documents/getting-rid-sodomy-laws-history-and-strategy-led-lawrence-decision |access-date=2024-02-16 |website=American Civil Liberties Union |language=en-US |archive-date=February 16, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240216224842/https://www.aclu.org/documents/getting-rid-sodomy-laws-history-and-strategy-led-lawrence-decision |url-status=live }}</ref> Along with this rise in LGBT population came increasingly frequent police raids which led to arrests for actions such as cross dressing. Groups like the ] attempted to meet with the police and negotiate the arrests, but to no avail.<ref>{{cite book |last1=de la Croix |first1=St. Sukie |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=44lheqlq-jYC&pg=PR7 |title=Chicago Whispers: A History of LGBT Chicago Before Stonewall |date=2012 |publisher=] |isbn=978-0-299-28694-1 |location=Madison, Wisconsin |access-date=31 January 2024}}</ref>


In 1969, the Baton Show Lounge was founded in ].<ref name=":14">{{Cite web |last=Syska |first=Justyna |date=2021-06-26 |title=Chicago drag show celebrates Pride Month |url=https://abc7chicago.com/baton-show-lounge-drag-uptown-chicago/10829596/ |access-date=2023-10-16 |website=ABC7 Chicago |language=en}}</ref><ref name=":42">{{Cite web |title=About Us |url=https://www.thebatonshowlounge.com/about-us |access-date=2023-10-16 |website=www.thebatonshowlounge.com}}</ref><ref name=":522">{{Cite web |last=Collo-Julin |first=Salem |date=2023-04-06 |title=Best internationally known drag pageant system based in Chicago |url=http://chicagoreader.com/best-of-chicago/best-arts-culture/best-internationally-known-drag-pageant-system-based-in-chicago/ |access-date=2023-10-16 |website=Chicago Reader |language=en-US}}</ref> In 1970, the ] was opened in Chicago's Old Town neighborhood. In 1969, the Baton Show Lounge was founded in ].<ref name=":14">{{Cite web |last=Syska |first=Justyna |date=2021-06-26 |title=Chicago drag show celebrates Pride Month |url=https://abc7chicago.com/baton-show-lounge-drag-uptown-chicago/10829596/ |access-date=2023-10-16 |website=ABC7 Chicago |language=en}}</ref><ref name=":42">{{Cite web |title=About Us |url=https://www.thebatonshowlounge.com/about-us |access-date=2023-10-16 |website=thebatonshowlounge.com |archive-date=April 25, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240425050026/https://www.thebatonshowlounge.com/about-us |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name=":522">{{Cite web |last=Collo-Julin |first=Salem |date=2023-04-06 |title=Best internationally known drag pageant system based in Chicago |url=http://chicagoreader.com/best-of-chicago/best-arts-culture/best-internationally-known-drag-pageant-system-based-in-chicago/ |access-date=2023-10-16 |website=Chicago Reader |language=en-US |archive-date=October 16, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231016051917/https://chicagoreader.com/best-of-chicago/best-arts-culture/best-internationally-known-drag-pageant-system-based-in-chicago/ |url-status=live }}</ref> In 1970, the ] was opened in Chicago's Old Town neighborhood.


In 1970, Chicago held its first ] in honor of the three-day long ] that had taken place in the city. Mostly acting as a political march, only 150 were in attendance. Since then, it has become a powerful symbol and annual celebration. In 1970, Chicago held its first ] in honor of the three-day long ] that had taken place in the city. Mostly acting as a political march, only 150 were in attendance. Since then, it has become a powerful symbol and annual celebration.


In April 1983, ] was elected the mayor of Chicago,<ref name=":2">{{Cite web |last=Treeck |first=Kasondra Van |date=2019-06-11 |title=30 key moments in Chicago's LGBTQ history, from Jane Addams to Lori Lightfoot |url=https://www.chicagotribune.com/2019/06/11/30-key-moments-in-chicagos-lgbtq-history-from-jane-addams-to-lori-lightfoot/ |access-date=2024-02-02 |website=Chicago Tribune |language=en-US}}</ref> and greatly supported LGBT rights, addressing gay rallies and pushing forward pro-LGBT legislation. His Human Rights Ordinance passed in 1988, after his death.<ref name=":1">{{cite web |last1=Van Treeck |first1=Kasondra |date=June 11, 2019 |title=30 key moments in Chicago's LGBTQ history, from Jane Addams to Lori Lightfoot |url=https://www.chicagotribune.com/lifestyles/ct-life-chicago-lgbtq-timeline-viz-0602-20190625-2iuc62caevazzfycdozg3tc3yu-story.html |access-date=31 January 2024 |website=Chicago Tribune}}</ref> In April 1983, ] was elected the mayor of Chicago,<ref name="Van Treeck">{{Cite web |last=Van Treeck |first=Kasondra |date=2019-06-11 |title=30 key moments in Chicago's LGBTQ history, from Jane Addams to Lori Lightfoot |url=https://www.chicagotribune.com/2019/06/11/30-key-moments-in-chicagos-lgbtq-history-from-jane-addams-to-lori-lightfoot/ |access-date=2024-02-02 |website=Chicago Tribune |language=en-US |archive-date=February 3, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240203040020/https://www.chicagotribune.com/2019/06/11/30-key-moments-in-chicagos-lgbtq-history-from-jane-addams-to-lori-lightfoot/ |url-status=live }}</ref> and greatly supported LGBT rights, addressing gay rallies and pushing forward pro-LGBT legislation. His Human Rights Ordinance passed in 1988, after his death.<ref name="Van Treeck"/>


During the 1980s, the AIDS epidemic was at its peak in the United States, including in Chicago. On September 9, 1985, the Chicago House was incorporated into ] as a project to house those suffering from the disease. A few years later, Chicago honored the victims of AIDS through "The Names Project AIDS Memorial Quilt", which can be found in ]. In June 2021, a groundbreaking ceremony was held for the ]; the park officially opened on June 2, 2022. During the 1980s, the AIDS epidemic was at its peak in the United States, including in Chicago. On September 9, 1985, the Chicago House was incorporated into ] as a project to house those suffering from the disease. A few years later, Chicago honored the victims of AIDS through "The Names Project AIDS Memorial Quilt", which can be found in ]. In June 2021, a groundbreaking ceremony was held for the ]; the park officially opened on June 2, 2022.


LGBT newspaper '']'' published its first issue on September 26, 1985 in Chicago.<ref>{{citation |title=Windy City Times (Chicago, Il) 1985–Current |url=https://www.loc.gov/item/sn90004505/ |access-date=15 Oct 2020 |publisher=Library of Congress}}</ref><ref name=":82">{{Cite web |last=Sharoff |first=Robert |date=2007-08-16 |title=Out There |url=https://www.chicagomag.com/Chicago-Magazine/September-2007/Out-There/ |access-date=2024-04-29 |website=Chicago Magazine |language=en-US}}</ref> The ] was established in 1991. LGBT newspaper '']'' published its first issue on September 26, 1985 in Chicago.<ref>{{citation |title=Windy City Times (Chicago, Il) 1985–Current |url=https://www.loc.gov/item/sn90004505/ |access-date=15 Oct 2020 |publisher=Library of Congress |archive-date=April 29, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240429233016/https://www.loc.gov/item/sn90004505/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name=":82">{{Cite web |last=Sharoff |first=Robert |date=2007-08-16 |title=Out There |url=https://www.chicagomag.com/Chicago-Magazine/September-2007/Out-There/ |access-date=2024-04-29 |website=Chicago Magazine |language=en-US |archive-date=April 29, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240429231310/https://www.chicagomag.com/chicago-magazine/september-2007/out-there/ |url-status=live }}</ref> The ] was established in 1991.


In 1993, a community that is present to this day called the ] opened. Located in ], it provides many programs and services for the ] community. The ] has now also transformed more broadly into a recreational space.<ref>{{cite web |title=Center on Halsted provides an array o |url=https://www.centeronhalsted.org/senior.html |access-date=31 January 2024 |website=Center on Halsted }}</ref>]|191x191px]] In 1993, a community that is present to this day called the ] opened. Located in ], it provides many programs and services for the ] community. The Center on Halsted has now also transformed more broadly into a recreational space.<ref>{{cite web |title=Celebrating, Supporting & Uniting the Lgbtq Older Adult Community |url=https://www.centeronhalsted.org/senior.html |access-date=31 January 2024 |website=Center on Halsted |archive-date=February 3, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240203040021/https://www.centeronhalsted.org/senior.html |url-status=live }}</ref>]|191x191px]]


=== 21st century === === 21st century ===
In 2004 ] fully banned discrimination based on sexual orientation through the Illinois Human Rights Act. In 2007, the ] opened its doors on Halsted Street and Waveland Avenue, bringing in over one thousand people per day.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Center on Halsted – Chicago's Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Queer Community Center |url=https://www.centeronhalsted.org/ |access-date=2024-02-02 |website=www.centeronhalsted.org}}</ref> In 2004 ] fully banned discrimination based on sexual orientation through the Illinois Human Rights Act. In 2007, the Center on Halsted opened its doors on Halsted Street and Waveland Avenue, bringing in over one thousand people per day.<ref>{{Cite web |title=About Center on Halsted |url=https://www.centeronhalsted.org/cohoverview.html |access-date=2024-02-02 |website=centeronhalsted.org |archive-date=19 January 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240119132710/https://www.centeronhalsted.org/cohoverview.html |url-status=live }}</ref>


The ] were held in Chicago from July 15 – July 22, 2006. The ] were held in Chicago from July 15 – July 22, 2006.


] in the 21st century passed a flurry of acts to further protect LGBT rights. In 2010, the Safe School Improvement Act was passed, prohibiting bullying or violence on the basis of discrimination, including for sexual and gender identity. In 2013, Illinois Governor ] signed off on the Religious Freedom and Marriage Fairness Act. In doing this, Illinois becomes the 16th state to fully allow same-sex marriage. The first couple to do so were Vernita Gray, and her partner, Patricia Ewert, marrying on November 27, 2013.<ref name=":1" /> ] in the 21st century passed a flurry of acts to further protect LGBT rights. In 2010, the Safe School Improvement Act was passed, prohibiting bullying or violence on the basis of discrimination, including for sexual and gender identity. In 2013, Illinois Governor ] signed off on the Religious Freedom and Marriage Fairness Act. In doing this, Illinois became the 16th state to fully allow same-sex marriage. The first couple to do so were Vernita Gray, and her partner, Patricia Ewert, marrying on November 27, 2013.<ref name="Van Treeck" />


Recently, in 2019, ] became at age 56 the first black woman and gay mayor of Chicago. She was inaugurated on May 20, 2019.<ref name=":2" /> Recently, in 2019, ] became at age 56 the first black woman and gay mayor of Chicago. She was inaugurated on May 20, 2019.<ref name="Van Treeck" />


In June 2019, the Midwest's first drag-centered festival, ], was founded.<ref name=":32">{{Cite web |title=Chicago is (finally) getting the big-time drag festival it deserves – North |url=https://digitaledition.chicagotribune.com/tribune/article_popover.aspx?guid=e9caef29-2018-4227-b7d4-bf36ff54d3e9 |access-date=2024-04-28 |website=digitaledition.chicagotribune.com}}</ref><ref name=":52">{{Cite web |last=Bauer |first=Kelly |date=2019-06-13 |title=The 'Epicenter Of Drag,' Chicago Is Finally Getting The Epic Drag Festival It Deserves With Star-Studded Pride Event |url=http://blockclubchicago.org/2019/06/13/the-epicenter-of-drag-chicago-is-finally-getting-the-epic-drag-festival-it-deserves-with-star-studded-pride-event/ |access-date=2024-04-28 |website=Block Club Chicago |language=en-US}}</ref> In June 2019, the Midwest's first drag-centered festival, ], was founded.<ref name=":32">{{Cite web |title=Chicago is (finally) getting the big-time drag festival it deserves |url=https://digitaledition.chicagotribune.com/tribune/article_popover.aspx?guid=e9caef29-2018-4227-b7d4-bf36ff54d3e9 |access-date=2024-04-28 |website=] |archive-date=April 28, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240428213526/https://digitaledition.chicagotribune.com/tribune/article_popover.aspx?guid=e9caef29-2018-4227-b7d4-bf36ff54d3e9 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name=":52">{{Cite web |last=Bauer |first=Kelly |date=2019-06-13 |title=The 'Epicenter Of Drag,' Chicago Is Finally Getting The Epic Drag Festival It Deserves With Star-Studded Pride Event |url=http://blockclubchicago.org/2019/06/13/the-epicenter-of-drag-chicago-is-finally-getting-the-epic-drag-festival-it-deserves-with-star-studded-pride-event/ |access-date=2024-04-28 |website=Block Club Chicago |language=en-US |archive-date=April 28, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240428215140/http://blockclubchicago.org/2019/06/13/the-epicenter-of-drag-chicago-is-finally-getting-the-epic-drag-festival-it-deserves-with-star-studded-pride-event/ |url-status=live }}</ref>


== LGBT neighborhoods of Chicago == == LGBT neighborhoods of Chicago ==
Notable LGBT-friendly neighborhoods in Chicago include ], ], ], and ].<ref name=":02">{{Cite web |last=agency |first=envisionit |date=2019-05-29 |title=LGBTQ Chicago Bucket List – Gay Friendly Chicago |url=https://www.choosechicago.com/articles/lgbtq-plus/the-ultimate-lgbtq-chicago-guide/ |access-date=2024-02-02 |website=Choose Chicago |language=en-US}}</ref> Notable LGBT-friendly neighborhoods in Chicago include ], ], ], and ].<ref name=":02">{{Cite web |last=agency |first=envisionit |date=2019-05-29 |title=LGBTQ Chicago Bucket List – Gay Friendly Chicago |url=https://www.choosechicago.com/articles/lgbtq-plus/the-ultimate-lgbtq-chicago-guide/ |access-date=2024-02-02 |website=Choose Chicago |language=en-US |archive-date=October 28, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211028170522/https://www.choosechicago.com/articles/lgbtq-plus/the-ultimate-lgbtq-chicago-guide/ |url-status=live }}</ref>


=== Boystown === === Boystown ===
], commonly known as Boystown, hosts one of the largest LGBT populations in the United States, and has hosted the annual pride parade since 1971.<ref name=":12">{{Cite web |title=2023 Chicago Pride Parade – LGBTQ Pride Month in Chicago |url=https://chicagopride.gopride.com/info.cfm |access-date=2024-02-02 |website=ChicagoPride.com |language=EN}}</ref> Originally the parade was started in 1970 as a march from Washington Square Park to the ], but since then it has taken different routes. The parade now passes through other neighborhoods along the way.<ref name=":12" /> ], commonly known as Boystown, hosts one of the largest LGBT populations in the United States, and has hosted the annual pride parade since 1971.<ref name=":12">{{Cite web |title=2023 Chicago Pride Parade – LGBTQ Pride Month in Chicago |url=https://chicagopride.gopride.com/info.cfm |access-date=2024-02-02 |website=ChicagoPride.com |language=EN |archive-date=February 3, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240203040021/https://chicagopride.gopride.com/info.cfm |url-status=live }}</ref> Originally the parade was started in 1970 as a march from Washington Square Park to the ], but since then it has taken different routes. The parade now passes through other neighborhoods along the way.<ref name=":12" />


Boystown is home to the ], which honors famous LGBT individuals by placing their portraits and biographies on bronze plaques placed throughout the neighborhood. It is the world's only outdoor LGBT history museum.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://legacyprojectchicago.org/legacy-walk|title=Explore the Legacy Walk |date=2015 |website=Legacy Project Chicago |access-date=13 September 2024}}</ref> Boystown is home to the ], which honors famous LGBT individuals by placing their portraits and biographies on bronze plaques placed throughout the neighborhood. It is the world's only outdoor LGBT history museum.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://legacyprojectchicago.org/legacy-walk|title=Explore the Legacy Walk|date=2015|website=Legacy Project Chicago|access-date=13 September 2024|archive-date=October 8, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191008221720/https://legacyprojectchicago.org/legacy-walk|url-status=live}}</ref>


== Politics == == Politics ==
In 1961, ] became the first state to repeal its ].<ref name="Painter">{{cite web |last=Painter |first=George|title=The History of Sodomy Laws in the United States: Illinois |url=http://www.glapn.org/sodomylaws/sensibilities/illinois.htm#fn73|work=The Sensibilities of Our Forefathers|publisher=Gay & Lesbian Archives of the Pacific Northwest|accessdate=12 January 2012|date=10 August 2004}}</ref> Effective LGBT political involvement began in the 1960s alongside the civil rights movement, with organizations such as the Chicago Gay Liberation Network, Mattachine Midwest, and ACT UP/Chicago. In 1961, ] became the first state to repeal its ].<ref name="Painter">{{cite web |last=Painter |first=George |title=The History of Sodomy Laws in the United States: Illinois |url=http://www.glapn.org/sodomylaws/sensibilities/illinois.htm#fn73|work=The Sensibilities of Our Forefathers |publisher=Gay & Lesbian Archives of the Pacific Northwest |accessdate=12 January 2012 |date=10 August 2004 |archive-date=May 15, 2010 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100515065329/http://www.glapn.org/sodomylaws/sensibilities/illinois.htm#fn73 |url-status=live}}</ref> Effective LGBT political involvement began in the 1960s alongside the civil rights movement, with organizations such as the Chicago Gay Liberation Network, Mattachine Midwest, and ACT UP/Chicago.


In 1965, Mattachine Midwest was founded as a gay rights organization following the ] the previous year. This organization was the first enduring gay rights organization, for it lasted until 1986. The Mattachine Midwest contributed both politically and socially to help the discrimination against LGBT groups, raising awareness about bar raids and police entrapment. The organization also created a monthly newsletter that provided LGBT groups in Chicago sources of gay community news, and provided a phone number for the LGBT community to find legal, medical, counseling, employment or religious help if needed. These contributions resulted in Mattachine Midwest being added to the ].<ref>{{cite web |title=MATTACHINE MIDWEST |url=https://chicagolgbthalloffame.org/mattachine-midwest/ |website=Chicago LGBT Hall of Fame}}</ref> In 1965, Mattachine Midwest was founded as a gay rights organization following the ] the previous year. This organization was the first enduring gay rights organization, for it lasted until 1986. The Mattachine Midwest contributed both politically and socially to help the discrimination against LGBT groups, raising awareness about bar raids and police entrapment. The organization also created a monthly newsletter that provided LGBT groups in Chicago sources of gay community news, and provided a phone number for the LGBT community to find legal, medical, counseling, employment or religious help if needed. These contributions resulted in Mattachine Midwest being added to the ].<ref>{{cite web |title=Mattachine Midwest |url=https://chicagolgbthalloffame.org/mattachine-midwest/ |website=Chicago LGBT Hall of Fame |access-date=14 September 2024 }}</ref>


Political LGBT interest groups such as the Chicago Gay and Lesbian Democrats have been prominent in the city since the 1980s.<ref name="Haider-Markelp1452">{{cite book |last=Haider-Markel |first=Donald P. |title=Gay and Lesbian Americans and Political Participation: A Reference Handbook |publisher=  ] |year=2002 |isbn=978-1-57607-256-1 |series=Political Participation in America |location=Santa Barbara, CA |page=}}</ref> Political LGBT interest groups such as the Chicago Gay and Lesbian Democrats have been prominent in the city since the 1980s.<ref name="Haider-Markelp1452">{{cite book |last=Haider-Markel |first=Donald P. |title=Gay and Lesbian Americans and Political Participation: A Reference Handbook |publisher=] |year=2002 |isbn=978-1-57607-256-1 |series=Political Participation in America |location=Santa Barbara, CA |page=}}</ref>


Throughout the 1960s, 1970s, and 1980s, ] was one of the main pioneers for Chicago's LGBT community through his advocacy for inclusion, and fought alongside the Democratic party to push for non-discrimination protections. He had served eight years as a Democratic precinct captain and was a delegate to the 1980 ].<ref>{{cite web |last1=Goldsborough |first1=Bob |title=Chuck Renslow, Chicago gay community icon and International Mr. Leather contest founder, dies at 87 |url=https://www.chicagotribune.com/news/obituaries/ct-chuck-renslow-obituary-20170630-story.html |website=Chicago Tribune|date=June 30, 2017 }}</ref> Renslow was also widely known for his long-running leather bar, which was also one of the first opened in Chicago, and his world-renowned provocative male photography that earned him a spot in the Chicago LGBT Hall Of Fame.<ref name=":8">{{Cite web |title=Charles "Chuck" Renslow Chicago LGBT Hall of Fame |url=http://chicagolgbthalloffame.org/renslow-charles/ |access-date=2020-02-27 |language=en-US}}</ref> Throughout the 1960s, 1970s, and 1980s, ] was one of the main pioneers for Chicago's LGBT community through his advocacy for inclusion, and fought alongside the Democratic party to push for non-discrimination protections. He had served eight years as a Democratic precinct captain and was a delegate to the 1980 ].<ref>{{cite web |last1=Goldsborough |first1=Bob |title=Chuck Renslow, Chicago gay community icon and International Mr. Leather contest founder, dies at 87 |url=https://www.chicagotribune.com/news/obituaries/ct-chuck-renslow-obituary-20170630-story.html |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170630231603/https://www.chicagotribune.com/news/obituaries/ct-chuck-renslow-obituary-20170630-story.html |archive-date=30 June 2017 |url-status=live |website=Chicago Tribune|date=June 30, 2017 }}</ref> Renslow was also widely known for his long-running leather bar, which was also one of the first opened in Chicago, and his world-renowned provocative male photography that earned him a spot in the Chicago LGBT Hall Of Fame.<ref name=":8">{{Cite web |title=Charles 'Chuck' Renslow |work=Chicago LGBT Hall of Fame |url=https://chicagolgbthalloffame.org/renslow-charles/ |access-date=2020-02-27 |language=en-US |archive-date=February 29, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240229212058/https://chicagolgbthalloffame.org/renslow-charles/ |url-status=live }}</ref>


In 1983, Mayor of Chicago candidate Jane Byrne promised to support the LGBT community, and garnered the endorsement of the Chicago Gay and Lesbian Democrats. Harold Washington prevailed over Byrne in the Democratic Party primary, and subsequently received the support of LGBT voters, helping him to win the general election and become the first African American mayor of Chicago.<ref>{{cite web |title=Harold Washington |url=https://chicagolgbthalloffame.org/washington-harold/ |website=Chicago LGBT Hall of Fame}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last=Baim |first=Tracy |date=2021-10-16 |title=The Washington Years |url=https://windycitytimes.substack.com/p/the-washington-years |website=Windy City Times Newsletter}}</ref> Harold Washington's support for gay rights earned him a spot in the Chicago LGBT Hall of Fame.<ref name="Haider-Markelp1452" /> In 1983, mayoral candidate Jane Byrne promised to support the LGBT community, and garnered the endorsement of the Chicago Gay and Lesbian Democrats. Harold Washington prevailed over Byrne in the Democratic Party primary, and subsequently received the support of LGBT voters, helping him to win the general election and become the first African American mayor of Chicago.<ref>{{cite web |title=Harold Washington |url=https://chicagolgbthalloffame.org/washington-harold/ |website=Chicago LGBT Hall of Fame |access-date=14 September 2024 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last=Baim |first=Tracy |date=2021-10-16 |title=The Washington Years |url=https://windycitytimes.substack.com/p/the-washington-years |website=Windy City Times Newsletter |access-date=February 3, 2024 |archive-date=February 3, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240203040023/https://windycitytimes.substack.com/p/the-washington-years |url-status=live }}</ref> Harold Washington's support for gay rights earned him a spot in the Chicago LGBT Hall of Fame.<ref name="Haider-Markelp1452" />


ACT UP/Chicago was an organization dedicated to improving the lives of people with AIDS. It often criticized the Mayor of Chicago ].<ref>{{cite book |last=Gould |first=  Deborah B. |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=2FBkJEVLio8C&pg=PA43 |title=Moving Politics: Emotion and ACT UP's Fight Against AIDS |publisher=University of Chicago Press |year=2009  |isbn=978-0-226-30531-8 |location=Chicago |page=43 |via=Google Books}}</ref> It later became a part of the Chicago LGBT Hall of Fame for actively challenging the institutional response to AIDS and the discrimination against LGBT groups. ACT UP/Chicago was an organization dedicated to improving the lives of people with AIDS. It often criticized the Mayor of Chicago ].<ref>{{cite book |last=Gould |first=Deborah B. |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=2FBkJEVLio8C&pg=PA43 |title=Moving Politics: Emotion and ACT UP's Fight Against AIDS |publisher=University of Chicago Press |year=2009 |isbn=978-0-226-30531-8 |location=Chicago |page=43 |via=Google Books}}</ref> It later became a part of the Chicago LGBT Hall of Fame for actively challenging the institutional response to AIDS and the discrimination against LGBT groups.


Originally called the Chicago Anti-Bashing Network in 1988 and later changed to the ] (GLN) in 2004, the GLN was formed by activist ] after the murder of Matthew Shepard.<ref>{{cite web |title=Gay Liberation Network |url=https://www.gayliberation.net/home.html |website=Gay Liberation Network}}</ref> The GLN were active in protests against discrimination, including by the ]. Their activism contributed greatly to the passing of SB10 in the state in November 2013, which legalized the ]. Originally called the Chicago Anti-Bashing Network in 1988 and later changed to the ] (GLN) in 2004, the GLN was formed by activist ] after the murder of Matthew Shepard.<ref>{{cite web |title=Gay Liberation Network |url=https://www.gayliberation.net/home.html |website=Gay Liberation Network |access-date=February 3, 2024 |archive-date=February 10, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240210113718/https://www.gayliberation.net/home.html |url-status=live }}</ref> The GLN were active in protests against discrimination, including by the ]. Their activism contributed greatly to the passing of SB10 in the state in November 2013, which legalized the ].


In 2019, ] was elected the 56th mayor of Chicago, becoming the first Black woman and openly gay person to serve in the position. Lightfoot had previously served as the President of the ], chairing the Police Accountability Task Force, and worked as a senior equity partner in the Litigation and Conflict Resolution Group at ].<ref>{{cite web |date=2023-10-11 |title=LGBTQ+ Victory Fund Welcomes Lori Lightfoot to Board of Directors |url=https://victoryfund.org/news/lgbtq-victory-fund-welcomes-lori-lightfoot-to-board-of-directors/#:~:text=Mayor%20Lightfoot%20released%20the%20following,resources%20they%20need%20to%20succeed. |website=LGBTQ+ Victory Fund}}</ref> In office, she introduced a resolution acknowledging and promoting LGBT businesses.<ref>{{cite web |date=2019-09-18 |title=Mayor Lightfoot Introduces Resolution to Acknowledge LGBT Business Enterprises In Chicago |url=https://www.chicago.gov/city/en/depts/dps/provdrs/events/news/2019/september/LGBTBE_Resolution.html |website=City of Chicago}}</ref> In 2019, ] was elected the 56th mayor of Chicago, becoming the first Black woman and openly gay person to serve in the position. Lightfoot had previously served as the President of the ], chairing the Police Accountability Task Force, and worked as a senior equity partner in the Litigation and Conflict Resolution Group at ].<ref>{{cite press release |date=2023-10-11 |title=LGBTQ+ Victory Fund Welcomes Lori Lightfoot to Board of Directors |url=https://victoryfund.org/news/lgbtq-victory-fund-welcomes-lori-lightfoot-to-board-of-directors/ |website=LGBTQ+ Victory Fund |access-date=February 3, 2024 |archive-date=February 3, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240203040023/https://victoryfund.org/news/lgbtq-victory-fund-welcomes-lori-lightfoot-to-board-of-directors/ |url-status=live }}</ref> In office, she introduced a resolution acknowledging and promoting LGBT businesses.<ref>{{cite web |date=2019-09-18 |title=Mayor Lightfoot Introduces Resolution to Acknowledge LGBT Business Enterprises In Chicago |url=https://www.chicago.gov/city/en/depts/dps/provdrs/events/news/2019/september/LGBTBE_Resolution.html |website=City of Chicago}}</ref>


Over time, the LGBT community has become more involved in city politics. In 2023, there were nine openly LGBT council members, the largest number of any city council in the country.<ref>{{cite web |last=Wittich |first=Jake |date=2023-05-03 |title=Chicago Is About To Have The Gayest City Council In The Country |url=https://blockclubchicago.org/2023/05/03/chicago-is-about-to-have-the-gayest-city-council-in-the-country/ |website=Chicago Block Club}}</ref> Over time, the LGBT community has become more involved in city politics. In 2023, there were nine openly LGBT council members, the largest number of any city council in the country.<ref>{{cite web |last=Wittich |first=Jake |date=2023-05-03 |title=Chicago Is About To Have The Gayest City Council In The Country |url=https://blockclubchicago.org/2023/05/03/chicago-is-about-to-have-the-gayest-city-council-in-the-country/ |website=Chicago Block Club |access-date=February 3, 2024 |archive-date=February 3, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240203040021/https://blockclubchicago.org/2023/05/03/chicago-is-about-to-have-the-gayest-city-council-in-the-country/ |url-status=live }}</ref>


== Notable people == == Notable people ==
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=== Jane Addams === === Jane Addams ===
Jane Addams was an LGBT activist prominent in the early 1900s. Born September 6, 1860, in ], she was a co-founder of the ], one of the first social foundations in North America.<ref name=":03">{{Cite web |title=Jane Addams {{!}} Biography, Accomplishments, Significance, Hull House, Books, & Facts |work=Encyclopædia Britannica |url=https://www.britannica.com/biography/Jane-Addams |access-date=2024-02-03 |language=en}}</ref> The settlement included 13 buildings and a playground. Addams spent her time after her father's death in 1881 tending to this settlement, which supported the community, offering jobs and college-level courses. The house eventually took to tending to immigrants and those who couldn't afford housing. Jane Addams was an LGBT activist prominent in the early 1900s. Born September 6, 1860, in ], she was a co-founder of the ], one of the first social foundations in North America.<ref name=":03">{{Cite encyclopedia |title=Jane Addams |encyclopedia=Encyclopædia Britannica |url=https://www.britannica.com/biography/Jane-Addams |access-date=2024-02-03 |language=en |archive-date=April 4, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240404011805/https://www.britannica.com/biography/Jane-Addams |url-status=live }}</ref> The settlement included 13 buildings and a playground. Addams spent her time after her father's death in 1881 tending to this settlement, which supported the community, offering jobs and college-level courses. The house eventually took to tending to immigrants and those who couldn't afford housing.


She would later succesfully advance ] housing regulations, an 8-hour factory work day, and better workplace inspections and oversight, and became a co-winner of the ] in 1931.<ref name=":03" /> She would later successfully advance ] housing regulations, an eight-hour factory work day, and better workplace inspections and oversight, and became a co-winner of the ] in 1931.<ref name=":03" />


Jane Addams was inducted into the ] in 2008. While she and her life partner ] spent 35 years romantically together, according to the Hull House Museum, Addams was better described under the broad term "queer", rather than "gay" or "lesbian".<ref name=":13">{{Cite web |last= |first= |date=2022-06-29 |title=Jane Addams & Mary Rozet Smith: More Than "Gal Pals" |url=https://www.hullhousemuseum.org/hullhouse-blog/2022/6/27/jane-addams-amp-mary-rozet-smith-more-than-gal-pals |access-date=2024-02-03 |website=Jane Addams Hull-House Museum |language=}}</ref><ref name=":13" /> Jane Addams was inducted into the ] in 2008. While she and her life partner ] spent 35 years romantically together, according to the Hull House Museum, Addams was better described under the broad term "queer", rather than "gay" or "lesbian".<ref name=":13">{{Cite web |last= |first= |date=2022-06-29 |title=Jane Addams & Mary Rozet Smith: More Than 'Gal Pals' |url=https://www.hullhousemuseum.org/hullhouse-blog/2022/6/27/jane-addams-amp-mary-rozet-smith-more-than-gal-pals |access-date=2024-02-03 |website=Jane Addams Hull-House Museum |language= |archive-date=February 3, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240203040023/https://www.hullhousemuseum.org/hullhouse-blog/2022/6/27/jane-addams-amp-mary-rozet-smith-more-than-gal-pals |url-status=live }}</ref>


=== Howard Brown Health === === Howard Brown Health ===
The ] is a non-profit LGBT healthcare and social services provider, founded in 1974 by Chicago-based organizers and researchers and named after Dr. ].<ref name=":23">{{Cite web |title=Mission & Overview |url=https://howardbrown.org/about/mission/ |access-date=2024-02-03 |website=Howard Brown Health |language=en-US}}</ref> Howard Brown Health describes itself as one of the first gay-focused health centers in the nation.<ref name=":3">{{Cite web |title=2021 Annual Report |url=https://howardbrown.org/publication/2021-annual-report/ |access-date=2024-02-03 |website=Howard Brown Health |language=en-US}}</ref> The ] is a non-profit LGBT healthcare and social services provider, founded in 1974 by Chicago-based organizers and researchers and named after Dr. ].<ref name=":23">{{Cite web |title=Mission & Overview |url=https://howardbrown.org/about/mission/ |access-date=2024-02-03 |website=Howard Brown Health |language=en-US |archive-date=February 3, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240203040022/https://howardbrown.org/about/mission/ |url-status=live }}</ref> Howard Brown Health describes itself as one of the first gay-focused health centers in the nation.<ref name=":3">{{Cite web |title=2021 Annual Report |url=https://howardbrown.org/publication/2021-annual-report/ |access-date=2024-02-03 |website=Howard Brown Health |language=en-US}}</ref>


As the ] struck in the early 1980s,<ref name=":4">{{Cite web |date=2012-11-13 |title=AIDS Activism in Chicago |url=https://interactive.wttw.com/remembering-chicago/aids-activism-chicago |access-date=2024-02-03 |website=WTTW Chicago |language=en}}</ref> the center supported the city's response, implementing the City of Chicago's AIDS Hotline in 1975.<ref name=":23" /> The hotline was operated 24 hours a day by staff and volunteers.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Center on Halsted – Chicago's Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Queer Community Center |url=https://www.centeronhalsted.org/resource-directory/HIV-AIDS/index.html |access-date=2024-02-03 |website=www.centeronhalsted.org}}</ref> As the ] struck in the early 1980s,<ref name=":4">{{Cite web |date=2012-11-13 |title=AIDS Activism in Chicago |url=https://interactive.wttw.com/remembering-chicago/aids-activism-chicago |access-date=2024-02-03 |website=WTTW Chicago |language=en |archive-date=February 3, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240203040021/https://interactive.wttw.com/remembering-chicago/aids-activism-chicago |url-status=live }}</ref> the center supported the city's response, implementing the City of Chicago's AIDS Hotline in 1975.<ref name=":23" /> The hotline was operated 24 hours a day by staff and volunteers.<ref>{{Cite web |title=HIV/AIDS & STD Resources |url=https://www.centeronhalsted.org/resource-directory/HIV-AIDS/index.html |access-date=2024-02-03 |website=centeronhalsted.org |archive-date=February 3, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240203040021/https://www.centeronhalsted.org/resource-directory/HIV-AIDS/index.html |url-status=live }}</ref>


In 1991, Howard Brown was inducted into the Chicago LGBT Hall of Fame. Their Capital Campaign resulted in the construction of a new $3.5 million facility to expand their services.<ref name=":3" /> In 1991, Howard Brown was inducted into the Chicago LGBT Hall of Fame. Their Capital Campaign resulted in the construction of a new $3.5&nbsp;million facility to expand their services.<ref name=":3" />


Through the late 1980s, Howard Brown also continued to operate The Brown Elephant, a prominent ] that financially supported Howard Brown Health. Brown Elephant directly funds services for more than 50% of uninsured or under-insured patients at the center.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Brown Elephant |url=https://howardbrown.org/get-involved/brown-elephant/ |access-date=2024-02-03 |website=Howard Brown Health |language=en-US}}</ref> The Brown Elephant was named the best resale in the city by the Chicago Reader in 2010. Through the late 1980s, Howard Brown also continued to operate The Brown Elephant, a prominent ] that financially supported Howard Brown Health. Brown Elephant directly funds services for more than 50% of uninsured or under-insured patients at the center.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Brown Elephant |url=https://howardbrown.org/get-involved/brown-elephant/ |access-date=2024-02-03 |website=Howard Brown Health |language=en-US |archive-date=February 3, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240203040021/https://howardbrown.org/get-involved/brown-elephant/ |url-status=live }}</ref> The Brown Elephant was named the best resale in the city by the Chicago Reader in 2010.


=== Dom Orejudos === === Dom Orejudos ===
], known on stage as "Etienne", was a ballet dancer, choreographer, and artist. After attending the Ellis-DuBulay School of Ballet, Orejudos joined the Illinois Ballet Company.<ref name=":5">{{Cite web |last=Tribune |first=Chicago |date=1991-10-02 |title=Dom Orejudos, 58, Ballet Dancer and Artist Known As 'Etienne' |url=https://www.chicagotribune.com/1991/10/02/dom-orejudos-58-ballet-dancer-and-artist-known-as-etienne/ |access-date=2024-02-03 |website=Chicago Tribune |language=en-US}}</ref> A ] critic in 1959 described him as "a performer of elasticity and charm" and told him that his dancing had an unmistakable personality to it.<ref name=":6">{{Cite web |title=Visual AIDS {{!}} Dom Orejudos aka "Etienne" |url=https://visualaids.org/artists/dom-orejudos-aka-etienne |access-date=2024-02-03 |website=Visual AIDS |language=en-US}}</ref> His ballet, ''The Charioteer'' later received major recognition for inaugurating the first color telecast of ] in Chicago. Their station received three ] for the production and presentation.<ref name=":5" /> ], known on stage as "Etienne", was a ballet dancer, choreographer, and artist. After attending the Ellis-DuBulay School of Ballet, Orejudos joined the Illinois Ballet Company.<ref name=":5">{{Cite web |last=Tribune |first=Chicago |date=1991-10-02 |title=Dom Orejudos, 58, Ballet Dancer and Artist Known As 'Etienne' |url=https://www.chicagotribune.com/1991/10/02/dom-orejudos-58-ballet-dancer-and-artist-known-as-etienne/ |access-date=2024-02-03 |website=Chicago Tribune |language=en-US |archive-date=February 3, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240203040020/https://www.chicagotribune.com/1991/10/02/dom-orejudos-58-ballet-dancer-and-artist-known-as-etienne/ |url-status=live }}</ref> A ] critic in 1959 described him as "a performer of elasticity and charm" and told him that his dancing had an unmistakable personality to it.<ref name=":6">{{Cite web |title=Dom Orejudos aka 'Etienne' |url=https://visualaids.org/artists/dom-orejudos-aka-etienne |access-date=2024-02-03 |website=Visual AIDS |language=en-US}}</ref> His ballet, ''The Charioteer'' later received major recognition for inaugurating the first color telecast of ] in Chicago. Their station received three ] for the production and presentation.<ref name=":5" />


Orejudos's fantasy art has been displayed on posters and magazines for decades due to his unique approach to translating ] onto paper. His most famous collection, known for its use of leather clothing, details the male body as it enhances their appearance for a factor of intrigue.<ref name=":6" /> He and his business partner and long-time companion ] carried on to operate several businesses including International Mr. Leather and the ].<ref name=":6" /><ref name=":8" /> Orejudos's fantasy art has been displayed on posters and magazines for decades due to his unique approach to translating ] onto paper. His most famous collection, known for its use of leather clothing, details the male body as it enhances their appearance for a factor of intrigue.<ref name=":6" /> He and his business partner and long-time companion ] carried on to operate several businesses including International Mr. Leather and the ].<ref name=":6" /><ref name=":8" />
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=== Danny Sotomayor === === Danny Sotomayor ===
], a resident of Chicago of Mexican and Puerto Rican descent, was born in 1958. He graduated from the ] with a major in graphic design as he dove into his passion for ], but his life stopped short as he was diagnosed with ] in 1988, redirecting Sotomayor's journey as an artist.<ref>{{Cite web |title=DANIEL SOTOMAYOR – Chicago LGBT Hall of Fame |url=https://chicagolgbthalloffame.org/sotomayor-daniel/ |access-date=2024-02-03 |language=en-US}}</ref> ], a resident of Chicago of Mexican and Puerto Rican descent, was born in 1958. He graduated from the ] with a major in graphic design as he dove into his passion for ], but his life stopped short as he was diagnosed with ] in 1988, redirecting Sotomayor's journey as an artist.<ref>{{Cite web |title=DANIEL SOTOMAYOR – Chicago LGBT Hall of Fame |url=https://chicagolgbthalloffame.org/sotomayor-daniel/ |access-date=2024-02-03 |language=en-US |archive-date=December 19, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231219234045/https://chicagolgbthalloffame.org/sotomayor-daniel/ |url-status=live }}</ref>


As his life was foreshortened, Sotomayor became heavily involved with Chicago activists and portrayed himself as an essential figure in the ACTUP/Chicago movement.<ref name=":4" /> Sotomayor became recognized as the first openly gay, openly HIV-positive cartoon artist in the nation, creating pieces on the topic of modern medicine, public policy, law enforcement, family dynamics, popular culture, and the gay community more broadly.<ref name=":7">{{Cite web |title=Daniel Sotomayor {{!}} Legacy Project Chicago |url=https://legacyprojectchicago.org/person/daniel-sotomayor |access-date=2024-02-03 |website=legacyprojectchicago.org |language=en}}</ref> As his life was foreshortened, Sotomayor became heavily involved with Chicago activists and portrayed himself as an essential figure in the ACTUP/Chicago movement.<ref name=":4" /> Sotomayor became recognized as the first openly gay, openly HIV-positive cartoon artist in the nation, creating pieces on the topic of modern medicine, public policy, law enforcement, family dynamics, popular culture, and the gay community more broadly.<ref name=":7">{{Cite web |title=Daniel Sotomayor {{!}} Legacy Project Chicago |url=https://legacyprojectchicago.org/person/daniel-sotomayor |access-date=2024-02-03 |website=legacyprojectchicago.org |language=en |archive-date=April 24, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240424100842/https://legacyprojectchicago.org/person/daniel-sotomayor |url-status=live }}</ref>


Sotomayor was widely known for his public confrontations with ] of Chicago while he made headlines in 1990 for his banner stating "We demand equal healthcare now", and "Daily tell the truth about AIDS".<ref name=":7" /> Sotomayor attempted to implement the city's AIDS plan, by bringing attention to inadequate education, prevention, and media plans according to the LGBT Hall of Fame.<ref name=":7" /> Sotomayor was widely known for his public confrontations with ] of Chicago while he made headlines in 1990 for his banner stating "We demand equal healthcare now", and "Daily tell the truth about AIDS".<ref name=":7" /> Sotomayor attempted to implement the city's AIDS plan, by bringing attention to inadequate education, prevention, and media plans according to the LGBT Hall of Fame.<ref name=":7" />
Line 130: Line 128:


=== Marie J. Kuda === === Marie J. Kuda ===
] was a historian, archivist, writer, lecturer, and promoter of LGBTQ+ history, who worked to spread and preserve a positive image of the LGBTQ+ community. She organized lesbian writing conferences and published the first lesbian annotated bibliography. She was inducted into the Chicago LGBT Hall of Fame in 1991, and died in 2016 at the age of 76.<ref>{{Cite web |title=MARIE J. KUDA – Chicago LGBT Hall of Fame |url=https://chicagolgbthalloffame.org/kuda-marie/ |access-date=2024-04-04 |language=en-US}}</ref> ] was a historian, archivist, writer, lecturer, and promoter of LGBTQ+ history, who worked to spread and preserve a positive image of the LGBTQ+ community. She organized lesbian writing conferences and published the first lesbian annotated bibliography. She was inducted into the Chicago LGBT Hall of Fame in 1991, and died in 2016 at the age of 76.<ref>{{Cite web |title=MARIE J. KUDA – Chicago LGBT Hall of Fame |url=https://chicagolgbthalloffame.org/kuda-marie/ |access-date=2024-04-04 |language=en-US |archive-date=March 18, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240318190909/https://chicagolgbthalloffame.org/kuda-marie/ |url-status=live }}</ref>


=== Charlene Carruthers === === Charlene Carruthers ===
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=== AD HOC Committee of Proud Black Lesbians and Gays === === AD HOC Committee of Proud Black Lesbians and Gays ===
The AD HOC Committee of Proud Black Lesbians and Gays organization was formed in 1993 with the purpose of participating in the ]. The event is hosted by the Chicago Defender Charities, and is considered the largest African-American parade in the nation. The committee was denied participation after completing the necessary steps to enter well before the deadline. The group filed a complaint on the basis of sexual discrimination, and eventually were allowed to participate in the parade.<ref>{{Cite web |title=AD HOC COMMITTEE OF PROUD BLACK LESBIANS AND GAYS – Chicago LGBT Hall of Fame |url=https://chicagolgbthalloffame.org/ad-hoc-committee-of-proud-black-lesbians-and-gays/ |access-date=2024-04-04 |language=en-US}}</ref> The AD HOC Committee of Proud Black Lesbians and Gays organization was formed in 1993 with the purpose of participating in the ]. The event is hosted by the Chicago Defender Charities, and is considered the largest African-American parade in the nation. The committee was denied participation after completing the necessary steps to enter well before the deadline. The group filed a complaint on the basis of sexual discrimination, and eventually were allowed to participate in the parade.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Ad Hoc Committee of Proud Black Lesbians and Gays |work=Chicago LGBT Hall of Fame |url=https://chicagolgbthalloffame.org/ad-hoc-committee-of-proud-black-lesbians-and-gays/ |access-date=2024-04-04 |language=en-US |archive-date=April 4, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240404222034/https://chicagolgbthalloffame.org/ad-hoc-committee-of-proud-black-lesbians-and-gays/ |url-status=live }}</ref>


=== Other institutions === === Other institutions ===
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* ], founded in 1983 * ], founded in 1983
* ], founded in 2019 * ], founded in 2019
* ], the annual ] in June; over a million people now participate in the pride festivities<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.chicagotribune.com/news/local/breaking/ct-pride-parade-aftermath-met-20150629-story.html|title=Enhanced police presence helped temper Pride Parade crowd, officials say|first=Meredith|last=Rodriguez|website=chicagotribune.com|date=June 29, 2015 }}</ref> * ], the annual ] in June; over a million people now participate in the pride festivities<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.chicagotribune.com/news/local/breaking/ct-pride-parade-aftermath-met-20150629-story.html |title=Enhanced police presence helped temper Pride Parade crowd, officials say |first=Meredith |last=Rodriguez |website=] |date=June 29, 2015 |access-date=May 20, 2019 |archive-date=April 21, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190421083047/https://www.chicagotribune.com/news/local/breaking/ct-pride-parade-aftermath-met-20150629-story.html |url-status=live}}</ref>
* ] * ]
* ] * ]
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* ] * ]
* ] * ]
* Pride Arts Center<ref>{{Cite web |date=December 9, 2018 |title=PrideArts |url=https://chicagoplays.com/theatre/pride-arts/ |access-date=2022-10-04 |website=Chicago Plays |language=en-US}}</ref> * Pride Arts Center<ref>{{Cite web |date=December 9, 2018 |title=PrideArts |url=https://chicagoplays.com/theatre/pride-arts/ |access-date=2022-10-04 |website=Chicago Plays |language=en-US |archive-date=October 4, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221004175223/https://chicagoplays.com/theatre/pride-arts/ |url-status=live }}</ref>
* ] * ]
* ] * ]
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== See also == == See also ==
{{Portal|LGBT|Chicago}} {{Portal|LGBTQ|Chicago}}
*], section of Lakeview was the first officially recognized gay village in the United States *], section of Lakeview was the first officially recognized gay village in the United States
*] *]
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== Further reading == == Further reading ==
{{refbegin}} {{refbegin}}
* {{cite book |last1= Austin |first1= Jill |first2= Jennifer |last2= Brier |name-list-style= amp |title= Out in Chicago: LGBT History at the Crossroads |location= Chicago |publisher= ] |year= 2011 |isbn= 978-0-913820-35-3 |url= https://books.google.com/books?id=KYl7uAAACAAJ&q=LGBT+chicago |via= Google Books}} * {{cite book |last1=Austin |first1=Jill |first2=Jennifer |last2=Brier |name-list-style=amp |title=Out in Chicago: LGBT History at the Crossroads |location=Chicago |publisher=] |year=2011 |isbn=978-0-913820-35-3 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=KYl7uAAACAAJ&q=LGBT+chicago |via=Google Books}}
* {{cite book |editor-last= Baim |editor-first= Tracy |title= Out and Proud in Chicago |location= Chicago |publisher= ] |year= 2008 |isbn= 978-1-57284-643-2}} * {{cite book |editor-last=Baim |editor-first=Tracy |title=Out and Proud in Chicago |location=Chicago |publisher=] |year=2008 |isbn=978-1-57284-643-2}}
* {{cite book |last= de la Croix |first= Sukie |title= Chicago Whispers: A History of LGBT Chicago before Stonewall |series= UPCC Book Collections on Project MUSE |location= Madison |publisher= ] |year= 2012 |isbn= 978-0-299-28693-4}}. * {{cite book |last=de la Croix |first=Sukie |title=Chicago Whispers: A History of LGBT Chicago before Stonewall |series=UPCC Book Collections on Project MUSE |location=Madison |publisher=] |year=2012 |isbn=978-0-299-28693-4}}.
{{refend}} {{refend}}



Latest revision as of 17:33, 4 November 2024

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The LGBTQ community in Chicago is one of the United States' most prominent, especially within the Midwest, alongside those of San Francisco and New York City, and holds a significant role in the progression of gay rights in the country. With a population of around 3 million, Chicago is the third biggest city in the US, and around 150,000 of those people identify as lesbian, bisexual, gay, transgender, questioning, or other.

Gay neighborhoods in Chicago have existed since the 1920s, when there was homosexual nightlife in Towertown, adjacent to the Water Tower. Increasing rents during the middle of the 20th century forced gay-friendly establishments steadily northwards, moving through Old Town and Lincoln Park along Clark Street and on to Boystown.

Boystown presently serves as the best-known Chicago gayborhood and as a center of its LGBT culture. In recent years, the area has been criticized for focusing on "affluent white gay men," rather than the broader LGBTQ community. Gentrification has pushed many LGBT people to reside ever further north into Uptown, Edgewater and Rogers Park.

History

Skyline of Chicago

19th century

In 1889, social reformer and activist Jane Addams opened Chicago's first settlement house, the Chicago Hull House. The purpose of it was to offer social reform for the community during the Gilded Age when many immigrants required help. Jane Addams had at least two same sex relationships over a long period of time. One of them was with Mary Rozet Smith, a Chicago born philanthropist.

20th century

During the 1920s and 1930s, Chicago, like other major urban centers, experienced what was called the Pansy Craze, when LBGTQ visibility greatly opened up. Gay cabarets were established and nightclubs had a steady demand. By the 1930s there were at least 35 pansy parlors. These clubs were so busy that some of them, like "Diamond Lil's" had to turn people away.

In 1924, the first American gay rights organization, the Society for Human Rights, was established by German immigrant and Chicago resident Henry Gerber. Gerber was inspired by similar institutions back in Germany and wanted to recreate one in Chicago. Its purpose was to defend the rights of people who have disabilities or were abused. On December 10, 1924, the state of Illinois officially recognized the society. Although it was shut down not long after, it made an impact, as gays and lesbians were seen to be more open near the Magnificent Mile area.

In the second half of the 20th century, more gay communities were established, centered around Clark Street. These neighborhoods would later develop into Boystown (Northalsted) and Andersonville. On July 28, 1961, Illinois became the first state to abolish sodomy laws as part of a package to revise old criminal laws. Along with this rise in LGBT population came increasingly frequent police raids which led to arrests for actions such as cross dressing. Groups like the Mattachine Society attempted to meet with the police and negotiate the arrests, but to no avail.

In 1969, the Baton Show Lounge was founded in River North. In 1970, the Bijou Theater was opened in Chicago's Old Town neighborhood.

In 1970, Chicago held its first pride parade in honor of the three-day long Stonewall riots that had taken place in the city. Mostly acting as a political march, only 150 were in attendance. Since then, it has become a powerful symbol and annual celebration.

In April 1983, Harold Washington was elected the mayor of Chicago, and greatly supported LGBT rights, addressing gay rallies and pushing forward pro-LGBT legislation. His Human Rights Ordinance passed in 1988, after his death.

During the 1980s, the AIDS epidemic was at its peak in the United States, including in Chicago. On September 9, 1985, the Chicago House was incorporated into Illinois as a project to house those suffering from the disease. A few years later, Chicago honored the victims of AIDS through "The Names Project AIDS Memorial Quilt", which can be found in Navy Pier. In June 2021, a groundbreaking ceremony was held for the AIDS Garden Chicago; the park officially opened on June 2, 2022.

LGBT newspaper Windy City Times published its first issue on September 26, 1985 in Chicago. The Chicago Gay and Lesbian Hall of Fame was established in 1991.

In 1993, a community that is present to this day called the Center on Halsted opened. Located in Lakeview, it provides many programs and services for the LGBTQ community. The Center on Halsted has now also transformed more broadly into a recreational space.

Center on Halsted

21st century

In 2004 Illinois fully banned discrimination based on sexual orientation through the Illinois Human Rights Act. In 2007, the Center on Halsted opened its doors on Halsted Street and Waveland Avenue, bringing in over one thousand people per day.

The 2006 Gay Games were held in Chicago from July 15 – July 22, 2006.

Illinois in the 21st century passed a flurry of acts to further protect LGBT rights. In 2010, the Safe School Improvement Act was passed, prohibiting bullying or violence on the basis of discrimination, including for sexual and gender identity. In 2013, Illinois Governor Pat Quinn signed off on the Religious Freedom and Marriage Fairness Act. In doing this, Illinois became the 16th state to fully allow same-sex marriage. The first couple to do so were Vernita Gray, and her partner, Patricia Ewert, marrying on November 27, 2013.

Recently, in 2019, Lori Lightfoot became at age 56 the first black woman and gay mayor of Chicago. She was inaugurated on May 20, 2019.

In June 2019, the Midwest's first drag-centered festival, Chicago Is a Drag Festival, was founded.

LGBT neighborhoods of Chicago

Notable LGBT-friendly neighborhoods in Chicago include Boystown, Andersonville, Uptown, and Edgewater.

Boystown

Northalsted, commonly known as Boystown, hosts one of the largest LGBT populations in the United States, and has hosted the annual pride parade since 1971. Originally the parade was started in 1970 as a march from Washington Square Park to the water tower, but since then it has taken different routes. The parade now passes through other neighborhoods along the way.

Boystown is home to the Legacy Walk, which honors famous LGBT individuals by placing their portraits and biographies on bronze plaques placed throughout the neighborhood. It is the world's only outdoor LGBT history museum.

Politics

In 1961, Illinois became the first state to repeal its sodomy law. Effective LGBT political involvement began in the 1960s alongside the civil rights movement, with organizations such as the Chicago Gay Liberation Network, Mattachine Midwest, and ACT UP/Chicago.

In 1965, Mattachine Midwest was founded as a gay rights organization following the Fun Lounge police raid the previous year. This organization was the first enduring gay rights organization, for it lasted until 1986. The Mattachine Midwest contributed both politically and socially to help the discrimination against LGBT groups, raising awareness about bar raids and police entrapment. The organization also created a monthly newsletter that provided LGBT groups in Chicago sources of gay community news, and provided a phone number for the LGBT community to find legal, medical, counseling, employment or religious help if needed. These contributions resulted in Mattachine Midwest being added to the Chicago LGBT Hall of Fame.

Political LGBT interest groups such as the Chicago Gay and Lesbian Democrats have been prominent in the city since the 1980s.

Throughout the 1960s, 1970s, and 1980s, Chuck Renslow was one of the main pioneers for Chicago's LGBT community through his advocacy for inclusion, and fought alongside the Democratic party to push for non-discrimination protections. He had served eight years as a Democratic precinct captain and was a delegate to the 1980 Democratic National Convention. Renslow was also widely known for his long-running leather bar, which was also one of the first opened in Chicago, and his world-renowned provocative male photography that earned him a spot in the Chicago LGBT Hall Of Fame.

In 1983, mayoral candidate Jane Byrne promised to support the LGBT community, and garnered the endorsement of the Chicago Gay and Lesbian Democrats. Harold Washington prevailed over Byrne in the Democratic Party primary, and subsequently received the support of LGBT voters, helping him to win the general election and become the first African American mayor of Chicago. Harold Washington's support for gay rights earned him a spot in the Chicago LGBT Hall of Fame.

ACT UP/Chicago was an organization dedicated to improving the lives of people with AIDS. It often criticized the Mayor of Chicago Richard M. Daley. It later became a part of the Chicago LGBT Hall of Fame for actively challenging the institutional response to AIDS and the discrimination against LGBT groups.

Originally called the Chicago Anti-Bashing Network in 1988 and later changed to the Gay Liberation Network (GLN) in 2004, the GLN was formed by activist Andy Thayer after the murder of Matthew Shepard. The GLN were active in protests against discrimination, including by the Chicago Police Department. Their activism contributed greatly to the passing of SB10 in the state in November 2013, which legalized the same-sex marriage.

In 2019, Lori. E Lightfoot was elected the 56th mayor of Chicago, becoming the first Black woman and openly gay person to serve in the position. Lightfoot had previously served as the President of the Chicago Police Board, chairing the Police Accountability Task Force, and worked as a senior equity partner in the Litigation and Conflict Resolution Group at Mayer Brown. In office, she introduced a resolution acknowledging and promoting LGBT businesses.

Over time, the LGBT community has become more involved in city politics. In 2023, there were nine openly LGBT council members, the largest number of any city council in the country.

Notable people

See also: List of LGBT people from Chicago

Many individuals have lived in or around the City of Chicago as well as affecting or identifying in the queer community have impacted the city.

Notable drag performers from Chicago include:

Jane Addams

Jane Addams was an LGBT activist prominent in the early 1900s. Born September 6, 1860, in Cedarville, Illinois, she was a co-founder of the Hull House, one of the first social foundations in North America. The settlement included 13 buildings and a playground. Addams spent her time after her father's death in 1881 tending to this settlement, which supported the community, offering jobs and college-level courses. The house eventually took to tending to immigrants and those who couldn't afford housing.

She would later successfully advance tenement housing regulations, an eight-hour factory work day, and better workplace inspections and oversight, and became a co-winner of the Nobel Peace Prize in 1931.

Jane Addams was inducted into the Chicago Gay and Lesbian Hall of Fame in 2008. While she and her life partner Mary Rozet Smith spent 35 years romantically together, according to the Hull House Museum, Addams was better described under the broad term "queer", rather than "gay" or "lesbian".

Howard Brown Health

The Howard Brown Health Center is a non-profit LGBT healthcare and social services provider, founded in 1974 by Chicago-based organizers and researchers and named after Dr. Howard Junior Brown. Howard Brown Health describes itself as one of the first gay-focused health centers in the nation.

As the AIDS crisis struck in the early 1980s, the center supported the city's response, implementing the City of Chicago's AIDS Hotline in 1975. The hotline was operated 24 hours a day by staff and volunteers.

In 1991, Howard Brown was inducted into the Chicago LGBT Hall of Fame. Their Capital Campaign resulted in the construction of a new $3.5 million facility to expand their services.

Through the late 1980s, Howard Brown also continued to operate The Brown Elephant, a prominent resale clothing store that financially supported Howard Brown Health. Brown Elephant directly funds services for more than 50% of uninsured or under-insured patients at the center. The Brown Elephant was named the best resale in the city by the Chicago Reader in 2010.

Dom Orejudos

Dom Orejudos, known on stage as "Etienne", was a ballet dancer, choreographer, and artist. After attending the Ellis-DuBulay School of Ballet, Orejudos joined the Illinois Ballet Company. A Chicago Tribune critic in 1959 described him as "a performer of elasticity and charm" and told him that his dancing had an unmistakable personality to it. His ballet, The Charioteer later received major recognition for inaugurating the first color telecast of WTTW in Chicago. Their station received three Emmys awards for the production and presentation.

Orejudos's fantasy art has been displayed on posters and magazines for decades due to his unique approach to translating sexuality onto paper. His most famous collection, known for its use of leather clothing, details the male body as it enhances their appearance for a factor of intrigue. He and his business partner and long-time companion Chuck Renslow carried on to operate several businesses including International Mr. Leather and the Gold Coast Bar.

After a long battle with AIDS, Orejudos died at home in Boulder, Colorado in 1991 at the age of 58. His work thereafter continued to be prominent in gay culture.

Danny Sotomayor

Daniel Sotomayor, a resident of Chicago of Mexican and Puerto Rican descent, was born in 1958. He graduated from the American Academy of Art with a major in graphic design as he dove into his passion for cartooning, but his life stopped short as he was diagnosed with AIDS in 1988, redirecting Sotomayor's journey as an artist.

As his life was foreshortened, Sotomayor became heavily involved with Chicago activists and portrayed himself as an essential figure in the ACTUP/Chicago movement. Sotomayor became recognized as the first openly gay, openly HIV-positive cartoon artist in the nation, creating pieces on the topic of modern medicine, public policy, law enforcement, family dynamics, popular culture, and the gay community more broadly.

Sotomayor was widely known for his public confrontations with Mayor Richard M. Dailey of Chicago while he made headlines in 1990 for his banner stating "We demand equal healthcare now", and "Daily tell the truth about AIDS". Sotomayor attempted to implement the city's AIDS plan, by bringing attention to inadequate education, prevention, and media plans according to the LGBT Hall of Fame.

On February 2, 1992, he received an "Alongi Award" in recognition of his efforts as an activist during the AIDS crisis as an HIV patient himself. He died 3 days later on February 5, 1992.

Marie J. Kuda

Marie J. Kuda was a historian, archivist, writer, lecturer, and promoter of LGBTQ+ history, who worked to spread and preserve a positive image of the LGBTQ+ community. She organized lesbian writing conferences and published the first lesbian annotated bibliography. She was inducted into the Chicago LGBT Hall of Fame in 1991, and died in 2016 at the age of 76.

Charlene Carruthers

Charlene Carruthers is an LGBT activist, community organizer, and author based in Chicago, Illinois. She gained notability through her commitment to racial and social justice issues, such as police brutality, and was involved in grassroots activism advocating for the rights of people in marginalized communities. She worked as the national director of the Black Youth Project 100, a youth-led organization that mobilizes and empowers young black activists.

Institutions

AD HOC Committee of Proud Black Lesbians and Gays

The AD HOC Committee of Proud Black Lesbians and Gays organization was formed in 1993 with the purpose of participating in the Bud Billiken parade. The event is hosted by the Chicago Defender Charities, and is considered the largest African-American parade in the nation. The committee was denied participation after completing the necessary steps to enter well before the deadline. The group filed a complaint on the basis of sexual discrimination, and eventually were allowed to participate in the parade.

Other institutions

Media

The now-defunct Chicago Gay Crusader and the Windy City Times have served LGBT readers, while Windy City Radio is the city's only LGBT radio station.

Recreation

Events

Places

Current

Defunct

See also

References

  1. Ali, Tanveer (March 30, 2018). "146,000 Chicago adults identify as LGBT: city study". Chicago Sun-Times. Retrieved September 14, 2024.
  2. Blackwell, Elizabeth Canning (2012). Frommer's Chicago. Frommer's Color Complete (17th ed.). Hoboken, NJ: John Wiley & Sons. p. 351. ISBN 978-1-118-16241-5 – via Internet Archive.
  3. Rhodes, Adam (November 25, 2020). "'We're not asking for any more than what we are already deserved'". Chicago Reader. Archived from the original on September 27, 2023. Retrieved August 31, 2023.
  4. "Watch out Boystown, Rogers Park becoming the new gayborhood". Chicago Tribune. February 24, 2012. Archived from the original on March 31, 2023. Retrieved October 4, 2022.
  5. "Jane Addams Hull-House Museum". Hullhouse Museum. June 29, 2022. Archived from the original on February 3, 2024. Retrieved January 31, 2024.
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Further reading

External links

LGBTQ culture in the United States
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