Like previous CAKE events, this year’s expo will host local and multinational comics artists and publishers, including notable special guests selling their books, prints and other wares.
In a press release, CAKE listed several reasons for the site change, saying, ” Broadway Armory provides more space and more amenities to contend with the event’s ever-growing popularity.”
However, CAKE also stated, “Members of the CAKE organizing committee dedicate themselves to maintaining the expo and all events associated with it to be safe, [welcoming] spaces for all. It is with this spirit that CAKE made the decision to end their relationship with Center on Halsted.
“There is no doubt that [the Center] has made significant contributions to the health and welfare of Chicago’s LGBTQ community. However, in a Medium article written by Loyola professor Devon Price, troubling revelations came to light concerning the security firm hired by [the Center[and its chief’s documented history with racist violence.
“Deeply concerned by Price’s report, CAKE organizers requested that interventions be made by [the Center]. When action was not taken in a timely and satisfactory manner, CAKE organizers decided as a group to relocate.”
Windy City Times has also reported extensively on the matter, most recently noting that the Center selected a new security provider, according to a Jan. 22 statement. The security firm—Quantum Security, LLC, whose other clients include Howard Brown Health Center, Broadway Youth Center, Triple S, La Casa Norte Pierce House and the Firehouse Community Arts Center—comes after a selection process that began last September. Quantum is replacing the controversial Walsch Security.