On May 7, Citywide Pride Chicago started up the 2026 Pride season with a networking and problem solving social at Hotel 55, 55 E. Ontario St.
The event, geared toward corporate employees, marked the 25th anniversary of the organization and was also a celebration of hotel, which is newly acquired by Marriott Properties. Guests employed at LGBTQ+-friendly companies snacked on chicken and waffles and sliders as they mingled and broke off into groups to discuss queer issues.
The groups, led by Citywide Pride host Bernadette Smith, discussed the challenges of fostering LGBTQ+ community in outlying areas, navigating participation with queer co-workers, navigating the remote landscape and the issue of not being out at the office.
Early in the evening Marriott representatives David Mayes and Christian Limbo welcomed the throng to Hotel 55 and spoke about the unique history of the property. Having acquired the property in November 2025, Marriott is both upgrading it and promoting it as a welcoming space for the LGBTQ+ community. Built in 1925, the hotel is now managed by Coury Hospitality.
Citywide Pride Chicago and Hotel 55 have several Pride events slated for June, including a Pride Makers Market in partnership with Brave Space Alliance on June 13 and a Pride Pup and Strut event for June 14.
