Center on Halsted brings together LGBTQ+ leaders from scross the Midwest

CHICAGO, IL – Midwest Pride: United in Community convening returns April 28-30, 2027, at Center on Halsted in Chicago. This groundbreaking conference assembles LGBTQ+ organizations, leaders, and advocates from across the Midwest to foster collaboration, share knowledge, and address pressing challenges facing the LGBTQ+ community today. Registration opens May 26, 2026.
The three-day convening will feature engaging panel discussions, interactive breakout sessions, affinity spaces, and networking opportunities, all to equip attendees with new strategies and meaningful connections. Key topics will include fundraising, policy and advocacy, gender-affirming care, organizational strategy, and youth programming.
“This event is a powerful opportunity for LGBTQ+ organizations across the Midwest to come together, share best practices, and build stronger, more resilient communities,” said Joli Robinson, CEO at Center on Halsted. “Midwest Pride: United in Community is all about fostering collaboration and creating a space where LGBTQ+ leaders and allies can unite in solidarity to move our collective mission forward.”
Patrick Ryan, Vice-President of Learning & Culture at Center on Halsted, emphasized the importance of regional collaboration, stating, “We know that many LGBTQ+ organizations across the Midwest, especially smaller and volunteer-led groups, face unique challenges. This convening is an opportunity to amplify their voices, provide resources, and support their growth by learning from one another and tackling issues together.”
Midwest Pride: United in Community Overview:
Midwest Pride: United in Community will provide professional development opportunities and facilitated discussions led by regional experts and community leaders. Participants will have the opportunity to engage in sessions tailored to their specific needs, collaborate on actionable solutions, and build lasting networks to drive meaningful change in their respective communities.

Event Highlights:

  • Thought-provoking panels such as “The State of the LGBTQ+ Union” and “2027 & Beyond: Strategies for Progress and Protection.”
  • Breakout sessions covering key focus areas including fundraising, advocacy, and strategic planning.
  • Affinity spaces for meaningful peer connection and shared experiences.
  • Networking opportunities, community happy hours, and a special tour of the Legacy
    Project.
    Event Details:
    Dates: April 28-30, 2027
    Location: Center on Halsted, 3656 N. Halsted, Chicago, IL 60613
    Cost: $350 per participant (early bird pricing & group discounts available)
    For more information or to express interest in presenting, volunteering, or attending, please visit our centeronhalsted.org or contact us at midwestpride@centeronhalsted.org.

Center on Halsted is the Midwest’s most comprehensive LGBTQ+ community center, serving people of all ages through programs in mental health, youth services, HIV/STI care, senior support, arts and cultural engagement, and advocacy. Founded in 1973 as Gay Horizons, a volunteer-led information clearinghouse, the organization has grown into a community hub with multiple locations across Chicago. Learn more at www.centeronhalsted.org