At the Chicago Cultural Center, 77 E. Randolph, on June 30, over 500 friends, family members and leaders within Chicago’s LGBT community gathered for Mayor Richard Daley’s 18th Gay Pride Month Reception. Because it was the 40th anniversary of Stonewall, there was older music on the speakers, and many of the speakers made reference to the events.
On the stage with Mayor Daley were congressman Mike Quigley, Human Relations Chair Dana Starks, Chicago Public Schools Chief Ron Huberman, Cook County State’s Attorney Anita Alvarez, 44th Ward Alderman Tom Tunney and William Greaves, who spoke about the accomplishments and successes that the LGBT community has achieved in the last year. Among these was the news that LGBT couples would be represented in the 2010 census, and that the state had changed their regulations to recognize the passports and other official documents of same-sex couples. The marriage debate was brought up several times, but the speakers wanted to assure everyone that President Obama was making progress, and progress was also being made in Illinois.
An award was also given to the Illinois Safe Schools Alliance, which worked to promote both groups and social services dedicated to help LGBT youth in their communities and establish them as functioning adults. The award was accepted by several members of the alliance’s board, who were ecstatic to be recognized for their work.
After the speakers, the members of the community reconnected with old friends and spoke of the future. Daley went through the room talking to people and congratulating them on a month well done. Photos by Steve Starr; more can be seen at WindyCityTimes.com.