Category Archives: Community
Bill Arning Exhibitions to Present Works by Gabriel Martinez at Expo Chicago Contemporary Art Fair April 24-27
For the 2025 edition of Expo Chicago Contemporary Art Fair , Bill Arning Exhibitions (BAE) will present Rekindling Sparks , a solo booth of photo-based conceptual works by Philadelphia-based Cuban-American artist Gabriel Martinez .
Martinez, who derives his works from queer archives and subcultural erotic histories, has maintained a decades-long professional relationship with Arning, who curated the artist’s first New York project at White Columns in 1995. For Expo Chicago, artist and curator will reconceptualize Sparks in a Dark Room , a significant installation Martinez presented in 2024 at Chicago’s Leather Archives and Museum (LA&M). The installation drew parallels between Martinez’s art and life, and the late queer Filipino Chicago-based artist Etienne,whose work forms the core of LA&M’s collection. Martinez’s works, presented in LA&M as part of a freewheeling installation, taped to the wall and tucked into bathrooms, have been reimagined for Expo Chicago in a more museum-ready form.
In the United States, few LGBTQ-specific museums exist. Chicago, where the leather world was invented in the city’s underground club scene, is unique in giving a home to a space like LA&M. The LA&M was created to preserve the legacy of Etienne (Domingo Orejudos), who died of AIDS-related illnesses in 1991 and whose hyper-erotic murals were beloved sites for queer visitors to the Windy City. Invited to work within the museum’s comprehensive collection of Etienne’s work, Martinez approached the late artist as a maker of queer myths.
Martinez’s technique uses contact printing, disco balls, and lasers to bring forth manifestations of seemingly collective leather dreams. His Sparks in A Dark Room at LA&M celebrated an expansive erotic drive through the employment of his unique photo processes that uses a photographic tricksterism to render the archival images he rephotographs as magical.
Martinez was raised in Miami but has spent his entire professional career in Philadelphia. For over three decades, he has been a teacher of young artists coming out of school and entering the art scene in that city. Alongside visionaries like Peter Hujar, Robert Mapplethorpe, and Wolfgang Tillmans, Martinez invites viewers to consider what was lost when the “golden age of promiscuity” ended during the AIDS crisis. Born in 1967, the artist was too young to have experienced the carefree sex depicted in his work. Still, as a gay man in his fifties, Martinez is figuratively revisiting this era with a mix of survivor’s guilt and erotic envy.
Exposure Section- Expo Chicago Contemporary Art Fair, Chicago, IL | April 24–27, 2025
About Bill Arning Exhibitions :Bill Arning Exhibitions (BAE), established in 2019, is a contemporary art gallery located in New York’s Hudson Valley dedicated to presenting challenging and thought-provoking work. With a focus on emerging and mid-career artists, BAE’s program fosters a stimulating dialogue between the universal desire to challenge convention and meaningful engagement with art history. Led by veteran curator Bill Arning, BAE continues his legacy of championing artists who push
Inclusive Wellness and Authentic Thai Massage for All at Thai Lotus Bodywork
Experience the unparalleled healing power of authentic Thai massage at Thai Lotus Bodywork, where traditional techniques meet expert care in a serene and welcoming environment.
We take pride in creating a space that is inclusive, affirming, and LGBTQ+ friendly, ensuring that every client feels comfortable, respected, and valued. Thai massage is a deeply therapeutic practice that has been passed down for centuries, combining elements of acupressure, assisted stretching, and rhythmic compression to restore balance, relieve muscle tension, and enhance overall flexibility. Whether you are seeking relief from chronic pain, recovering from physical strain, or simply looking to unwind from the stresses of daily life, our highly trained therapists tailor each session to your unique needs, providing a healing experience that is both restorative and rejuvenating.
At Thai Lotus Bodywork, we believe that true wellness comes from harmony between the body and mind. Our peaceful spa setting has been carefully designed to provide a sanctuary where you can fully relax and be yourself. From the moment you step inside, you will be welcomed with warmth and professionalism, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in a state of deep relaxation. Our team consists of male and female therapists who have years of experience in traditional Thai healing methods, working with precision and care to release tension, improve circulation, and promote deep, lasting relief. We honor every client’s individual needs and ensure that all treatments are conducted with the utmost respect for personal comfort and boundaries.
We take pride in offering a premium wellness experience, with a commitment to exceptional service, cleanliness, and professionalism. As part of our dedication to inclusivity and community, we are thrilled to offer an exclusive promotion for Best Gay Chicago readers — receive $15 off your first 90-minute session. We believe that self-care is for everyone, and we are honored to provide a space where LGBTQ+ clients can relax and recharge with confidence.
Book your session today by calling or texting 773-677-9889 or visiting our website to learn more about our services. Whether you are new to Thai massage or a returning client, we invite you to discover why Thai Lotus Bodywork is the ultimate destination for authentic Thai healing, relaxation, and inclusive wellness.
2 locations; Downtown and Uptown!
LGBTQ Night @ Six Flags September 7th OUT IN THE PARK
It’s almost here!
Six Flags Great America
Returns in 2024 for Year 13!
SEPT. 7th 8pm – 12am
(There is another private event before ours. Sometimes the gates open a little bit early. Get there a little early, if you want to maximize your time in the park! – or tailgate in the parking lot!)
with a computer or smart phone.
GaySixFlagsChicago.com
$51 after Sept 2
$56 at the door – if available.
FREE PARKING!
ALL AGES EVENT!
Must be 21 years or older to purchase adult beverages!
Ticket sales are capped at 5000 – so it’s a private night in the park with much shorter lines!
SEASON PASSES ARE NOT ACCEPTED FOR PRIVATE EVENTS AT SIX FLAGS.
Fortune Feimster & Jax Smith 2024 Chicago GAY LGBTQ Pride Parade
The celebrity comedienne and her wife will join Community Grand Marshals,
Art Johnston & Jose ‘Pepe’ Pena and Myles & Precious Brady-Davis
PRIDEChicago, the all-volunteer organization behind the iconic Chicago Pride Parade for over 50 years, announces the selection of comedienne, Fortune Feimster and her wife Jax Smith as Grand Marshals for the 2024 Chicago Pride Parade on Sunday, June 30th starting at 11 a.m.
Fortune Feimster, a beloved stand-up comedian, writer, and actor, along with her wife Jax, will lead the procession, bringing their infectious energy and inspiring love story to the heart of Chicago’s LGBTQ+ community. With her trademark humor and relatable storytelling, Fortune Feimster has captivated audiences worldwide. Her two one-hour Netflix specials, “Sweet & Salty” and “Good Fortune,” have garnered critical acclaim and accolades, including nominations at the Critics’ Choice Awards. Feimster’s comedic prowess transcends barriers of age, background, and sexual orientation, fostering unity through laughter. In addition to standup, Feimster co-stars alongside Arnold Schwarzenegger in the hit action-comedy series FUBAR on Netflix. She also co-hosts the very popular podcast Handsome with Tig Notaro and Mae Martin.
“We are honored to be named the Grand Marshals for Chicago Pride,” said Feimster. “Chicago holds a special place in our hearts—it’s home to a great comedy scene and home to the best audiences. It’s also where Jax and I first met nine years ago, during Pride. As we celebrate our community and our anniversary, it feels like a beautiful full-circle moment.”
The couple’s love story began at Chicago Pride in 2015, just days after the Supreme Court’s historic ruling for nationwide marriage equality. Since then, they have shared a journey of love and commitment, culminating in their marriage in October 2020.
PRIDEChicago also announces the selection of two additional loving couples to serve as Community Grand Marshals:
Chicago activist and bar owner Art Johnston and his partner in life and business, Jose “Pepe” Pena. The couple, who have been together for 50 years, helped create community – opening the iconic gay bar Sidetrack in 1982 – and fueled a civil rights movement that is still active today. Johnston was an important organizer in passage of Chicago and Cook County human rights legislation and was a co-founder of the Illinois Federation for Human Rights, now known as Equality Illinois. The duo, nationally recognized LGBTQ+ civil rights leaders, are also the subject of an award-winning feature documentary, ART AND PEP.
Longtime LGBTQ+ activists, community organizers and high-profile transgender couple Myles and Precious Brady-Davis. Myles Brady-Davis is communications director of Equality Illinois and Precious Brady-Davis recently became the first Black transgender person appointed to public office in Cook County as well as the first trans person to serve on a water reclamation board in U.S. history. Precious wrote the best-selling book, I Have Always Been Me. The couple married in 2016 and are now raising two beautiful children.
“For over 50 years the Chicago Pride Parade has been a source of inspiration, collective strength, and a moniker of our past and present,” said Precious Brady-Davis. “The birth of our movement started with black and brown trans folks at the center, and we intend to honor that legacy and stand on their shoulders at this moment.”
The 53rd annual Chicago Pride Parade starts at 11 a.m., Sunday, June 30th 2024 and will travel through Chicago’s landmark LGBTQ+ neighborhood of Lakeview. Themed “Pride is Power,” the parade promises to be a celebration of love, unity, and resilience, reflecting the incredible culture and spirit of the LGBTQ+ community. For more information, visit PRIDEChicago.org.
The parade serves as the crowning event of Pride Month in Chicago, capping off a series of celebrations that unite our diverse community. Among these is the highly anticipated 23rd annual Chicago Pride Fest, taking place on June 22nd and 23rd, 2024. The two-day street festival is organized by the Northalsted Business Alliance chamber of commerce. For further details, visit Northalsted.com.
LGBTQ+ PRIVATE Night at Six Flags September 9th
Six Flags Great America
Returns in 2023 for Year 12!
(There is another private event before ours. Sometimes the gates open a little bit early. Get there a little early, if you want to maximize your time in the park!)
with a computer or smart phone.
$55 at the door – if available.
FREE PARKING!
MEN OF Chicago Portagers Lacrosse Club
Who likes Lacrosse?
or maybe you just like men in uniforms/ gear?
Let me introduce you to Chicago Portagers Lacrosse Club!
“We are Chicago’s premier semi-pro Box Lacrosse team. We’re excited to bring high-quality Box Lacrosse to the Windy City and do our part to help grow the game.
Our Senior A Men’s Box practices are at Mt Prospect Central Community Center in Mt Prospect.
Our Senior A Men’s Box game venue is Salt Creek Sports Center in Palatine, IL. Our Men’s Field team plays at Clark Park in Chicago (near Lane Tech).”
If YOU WANT TO JOIN – there is lots of information on their website.
Maybe you don’t want to play, you just want to “watch”!
They have developed and created The Men of Midwestern Lacrosse.
The “Men of Midwestern Lacrosse” project aims to achieve three important goals by featuring lacrosse teams from across the Midwest stripping down to raise money for charity, promote male body positivity, and increase the visibility of the sport. The project will donate a portion of its Patreon proceeds to support charitable causes, while also showcasing the diverse range of body types found among lacrosse players to encourage male body positivity. Additionally, by promoting the sport of lacrosse to a wider audience, the project hopes to attract more players and fans to this exciting and fast-paced game.
$6 a month contribution Includes implied nudity, player interviews, and content requests, and other fun content!
$11 a month contribution Includes full nudity, behind-the-scenes content, and player videos!
Get a look at those shafts!
Monkeypox Vaccine in Chicago
Starting July 18, 2022, TPAN will have Monkeypox vaccine available, first come, first served.
Pride in the Park June 26 & 27, 2021
PRIDE IN THE PARK ANNOUNCES LEGENDARY LINEUP THAT BRINGS TOGETHER THE QUEEN OF FUNK AND QUEER ICON, THE GREATEST DJ OF ALL TIME, AND THE PRODIGAL PRODUCER THAT IS SURE TO PRODUCE SICKENING SOUNDS AND ONE OF THE BEST PRIDE MUSIC FESTIVALS OF THE YEAR
Pride in the Park Chicago, presented by Truly Hard Seltzer, proudly announces the legendary lineup for this years’ Main event in Grant Park (downtown Chicago) on June 26 and 27, along with being one of the city’s first in-person festivals.
HEADLINING IN ALPHABETICAL ORDER
- Chaka Khan, the legendary Queen of Funk, Queer Icon, and ten-time Grammy-winning artist.
- GRYFFIN, the self-taught prodigal producer, with a #1 on Spotify’s US and Global Viral charts and #2 on Spotify’s New Music Friday playlist.
- Tiësto, a Grammy award-winning artist, dubbed “the world’s greatest DJ,” the Godfather of EDM, and commanding the title of “best DJ of the last 20 years.
FULL LINEUP
- Betty Who, the Australian-American singer and songwriter of “I Love You Always Forever,” peaked inside the top ten in Australia and reached the top of the Billboard Dance Club Songs chart in the United States.
- Tracy Young, a Grammy award-winning producer, history-maker, and proud member of the LGBTQ community, she is the first woman ever to win a Grammy in the category of best-remixed recording.
- Alyssa Edwards, the iconic star from Emmy-winning television series “RuPaul’s Drag Race,” American entertainer, choreographer, and television personality.
- Derrick Carter, a Queer, Black Chicago-native, was named No. 53 in the 100 Most Famous Chicagoans, is regarded as one of the best underground house key players in the U.S. and Europe.
Among these show-stoppers, there will be other renowned and diverse artists such as CircuitMOM, Hector Fonseca, Tony Moran, Lady D, The Vixen Denali Foxx, Karsten Sollors, Tenderoni, Miss Toto, Mila Jam, Kinley Preston, Traci Ross, Naysha Lopez, It Jomama, Hinkypunk, Kara Mel D’Ville, Sheeza Woman, Avi Sic, Matt Suave, O’Laysia, Chamilla Foxx, Zoliy Miyake Mugler for Ballroom Pride & Guest Speakers.
Dusty Carpenter, Pride in the Park Chicago President and Lead Organizer, said, “To say we are excited is an understatement. We have legendary artists – with 12 Grammys combined – diverse Allies and Queer icons that are going to simply bring the house down. What better way to celebrate our Pride than with amazing music in a diverse and inclusive atmosphere? We continue to celebrate Pride to remind us of our achievements and to also remind us of our history, struggles, and work that is yet to be done.”
Proud Partnerships Uphold Our Commitment to Equality, Equity, and Big Entertainment
- We are proud to continue its official charity partnership with The Center on Halsted – donating a portion of ticket sales and providing in-kind tickets to ensure LGBTQ+, and underprivileged youth may participate, feel welcomed, and celebrate their pride openly.
- We are proud to continue another community activity on Pride weekend; the awards ceremony for Pride Bowl XIII will be held at the festival. Now in its 13th year, Pride Bowl is an LGBTQ+ flag football tournament played on Chicago’s lakefront as part of Pride weekend.
- A new Proud Partnership with Chicago’s very own CircuitMOM Productions – commanding their own onsite performances. Consistently bringing exceptional performances, outrageous outfits, drag kings and queens, world-famous DJs, and that signature electric house music that only CircuitMOM can deliver.
- A new Proud Partnership with Health Pass by CLEAR. Health Pass is a free mobile experience on the CLEAR app that securely connects a user’s verified identity to multiple layers of COVID-19-related health information to help reduce public health risk and get people back to what they love.
- We are proud to continue a partnership with Howard Brown Health and other Chicago testing providers to give attendees as many options as possible. If not fully vaccinated, we highly suggest you get tested Thursday or Friday prior to the event at one of the COVID PCR testing centers around the city.
VISIT WEBSITE FOR MORE INFORMATION ON OUR PROUD PARTNERS AND OUR FULL COVD-19 HEALTH SAFETY PLAN
WHAT: Pride in the Park Chicago LGBTQ+ live, outdoor festival
WHERE: Grant Park – BUTLER FIELD (Downtown Chicago) | 100 S Lakeshore Drive, Chicago, IL
WHEN: Saturday, June 26 and Sunday, June 27 // TIMES: 2:00 PM-10:00 PM, 3:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Drag March Chicago 2021 will happen JUNE 13th
Chicago Black Queer Community Calls for Change
Belmont and Halsted, where the LGBTQ+ community and allies will march in support of Black Lives
Matter and demand justice for acts of oppression. A gathering will mark the beginning of the march, with the march commencing at 1:00pm and ending at Halsted and Grace where drag community leaders will speak on the issues of today, the mission at hand, and ways to create and promote lasting impact.
community,” said protest organizer Joe Lewis, who performs in drag as Jo Mama. “Now we need to
continue to stoke the flames of change, and hold those who have oppressed our community accountable
with continued action.”
community, specifically Black trans lives, that still persists and has expanded to peoples of all races,
especially members of the AAPI community.
-Justice* for Tony McDad, Breonna Taylor, and George Floyd
-Reclassification of violence against Trans individuals as a hate crime
-That the Chicago City Council defund CPD by 75% and reinvest those funds into social services and
community programs
-Police banned from marching in Pride festivities indefinitely
-Immediate release of all protesters from previous BLM actions
*Justice being the abolishment of the system that took these lives and that restorative systems grow in
their stead.
RuPaul’s Drag Race Alum, Dida Ritz
Legendary Performer, The Miss Toto
Chicago Icon, Lucy Stoole
RuPaul’s Drag Race Alum, The Vixen
Drag Council Co-Founder, Lil Nicki
Molasses Collective Member, Cae Monae
Drag March for Change Organizer, Jo MaMa
The Drag March for Change is a peaceful protest that originated in June of 2020 in response to a growing
need for action after events such as the murder o f George Floyd, the murder of Breonna Taylor, the
murder of Tony McDade, and racism that exists in the Boystown community of Chicago. Over 15,000
people marched in solidarity on June 14, 2020 in response to a need for change, specifically in regards to
racial injustice taking place in Chicago communities.
Black Drag Council, a town hall lead by the Chicago, a petition for change in leadership in queer
nightclubs in Chicago, action to uplift oppressed communities such as black queer folks within the
Boystown community, and a continued effort to support performers in Chicago.
https://forms.gle/823xCHjJmLRMxSHa7
LAUNCHING JUNE PRIDE MONTH WITH AIDS GARDEN CHICAGO GROUNDBREAKING
The Honorable Mayor Lori Lightfoot, Alderman Tom Tunney, Congressman Mike Quigley, Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky, State Senator Sara Feigenholtz, State Representatives Greg Harris and Margaret Croke, Chicago Parks Foundation Executive Director Willa Lang, and Chicago Park District General Superintendent and CEO Mike Kelly, along with members of the LGBTQ community, officially and joyfully ‘broke the ground’ on the long-awaited AIDS Garden Chicago Wednesday, June 2, 2021.
Located at Lake Shore Drive and Belmont Avenue, AIDS Garden Chicago is the city’s first public park to memorialize the early days of Chicago’s HIV epidemic, and honors those who continue to fight against the disease today.
Taking place in front of the Garden’s anchor piece, the stunning 30-foot Keith Haring sculpture, ‘Self-Portrait,’ official remarks were followed by a powerful spoken word performance by Chicago-bred Black Queer playwright, poet and activist Osiris Khepera.
“It brings me great joy to officially break ground on AIDS Garden Chicago in a location that means so much to our LGBTQ+ communities,” said Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot. “As we memorialize those we’ve lost to the HIV epidemic and honor those who continue to fight this disease, it has never been more important to immortalize Belmont Rocks’ legacy as a safe space where people could gather, support one another and be their full selves. I look forward to seeing this garden come to life by the end of this year and become our city’s newest symbol of liberation, individuality and stewardship.”
Alderman Tom Tunney said, “I thank everyone who attended the AIDS Garden Chicago groundbreaking event; in the face of the AIDS epidemic, countless people took action and worked to provide health care, housing, food or other services to meet basic needs of our friends and neighbors who became infected with HIV/AIDS. Many of these same people worked tirelessly to see this garden, the city’s first public park to memorialize the early days of Chicago’s HIV epidemic, come to fruition. AIDS Garden Chicago is a living garden and an educational tool that symbolizes the resiliency of the LGBTQ community. AIDS Garden Chicago is intended to be a safe space for all: those who are queer or straight, those with any gender identity, those from any race or ethnicity. The AIDS epidemic impacted people of all backgrounds from all communities and walks of life and we recognize the human toll for all. Thank you to all who have helped make AIDS Garden Chicago possible.”
Added Chicago Parks Foundation Executive Director Willa Lang, “Especially at this time, during the pandemic, when so many marginalized communities were impacted disproportionately, we remember, recognize and honor those amazing joyful lives lived and lost during the AIDS epidemic at this magnificent site along the lake front. But what is most important to remember is that there are those who still live with HIV/AIDS today, individuals not yet welcome, not well-served and still struggling to be seen. Our work is not yet done. AIDS Garden Chicago is a garden for all. A safe place to tell the stories, reflect and celebrate all lives and our differences as well. The Belmont Rocks will live on in this lush wandering garden of beauty, joy and shared love. The Chicago Parks Foundation is honored to lead this project to its completion and look forward to bringing our communities together again when we cut the ribbon on AIDS Garden Chicago this fall.”
Other VIPS in attendance at the groundbreaking included: Chicago Park District Manager of Art Initiatives Mike Dimitroff, Chicago Parks Foundation Board Member Michael Erwin, OUTspoken co-founder David Fink, Chicago Park District Director of Planning and Development Heather Gleason, business woman and activist Christie Hefner, former Alderman Tunney representative Chris Jessup, community gardener Nancy Juda, Design Workshop garden designer Manisha Kaul, Legacy Project Co-Founder Owen Keehnen, former State Senator William Marovitz, Alphawood Foundation Executive Director Jim McDonough, Executive Director of The Arts Club of Chicago Janine Mileaf, community supporter Vicki Noe, current Alderman Tunney Director of Business Affairs and Special Events Jessica Papp, President and CEO of AIDS Foundation Chicago John Peller, former State Representative Yoni Pizer, Rosenthal Fine Art’s Dennis Rosenthal and Susan Pool, Legacy Project Co-Founder and Executive Director Victor Salvo, and Lincoln Park Conservancy Executive Director Doug Widener.
The 2.5 acre AIDS Garden Chicago is situated on Lake Michigan at the original location of the historic Belmont Rocks, a beloved space where the local gay community gathered between the 1960s and 1990s. The Garden’s first phase was completed in late 2019 with the installation of its anchor piece, the stunning 30-foot Keith Haring sculpture, ‘Self-Portrait.’ The Garden will include unique areas designed for reflection, education, honor, and pride. Visitors will be guided through a variety of collective garden spaces all providing a sensory nature experience, most notably a Gingko Reflection Grove. The Foundation will soon launch the AIDS Garden Story Archive, a digital quilt of personal shared experiences to be posted on the AIDS Garden Chicago website. AIDS Garden Chicago, a “park with purpose,’ expects to open in Fall 2021.
The Chicago Parks Foundation thanks current AIDS Garden Chicago partners: Alderman Tom Tunney, Alphawood Foundation, TAWANI Foundation, Walgreens, Beaumier Donor Advised Family Fund, the Elizabeth Morse Trust and the Chicago Park District in addition to tireless advocacy by the State of Illinois, Senator Sara Feigenholtz, Leader Greg Harris, Representative Mike Quigley, State Rep Margaret Croke and former State Representative Yoni Pizer. Further thanks to: AIDS Foundation of Chicago, Center on Halsted, Design Workshop, Friends of the Parks, Howard Brown Health, Keith Haring Foundation, Legacy Project, Mariano’s, The Moth and Rosenthal Fine Art, Inc.
The Chicago Parks Foundation is leading the Garden’s fundraising and community conversations. Established in 2013 as the nonprofit partner of Chicago’s parks, the Chicago Parks Foundation operates in a public-private partnership with the Chicago Park District to provide fiscal partnership to foundations, organizations, and individuals who wish to support their parks. For more information, visit Chicago Parks Foundation.
Boystown Chicago Northalsted Market Days 2021
Northalsted Market Days® is set to return to Chicago in 2021: August 6, 7 and 8, adding a Friday night edition for the first time. The 1/2 mile long street festival has been an annual summer tradition in Chicago for nearly 4 decades.
As widespread vaccinations continue making progress against the pandemic, planning is underway for a much anticipated comeback.
With safety at the forefront, planning involves continual contact with health officials in the City of Chicago, the State of Illinois and monitoring of CDC guidelines in order to take all necessary precautions to ensure a safe event.
Since the first Market Day in August, 1982, the LGBTQ+ positive event has grown from a handful of folding tables and chairs on the sidewalk, to a half-mile long, annual summer ritual on Chicago’s North Halsted Street from Belmont to Addison.
39 years later, Market Days is now considered among Chicago’s top ten festivals. Thousands attend from near and far enjoying all-day lineups of live music on 5 stages, hundreds of vendors, summer food & drinks, dancing in the street, and more. Subscribe to the newsletter for the latest updates and this year’s entertainment details.
A $15 suggested donation for entry helps cover festival costs, benefits local charities and supports year round Northalsted chamber programming in the community. Generous public donations, funded the Chicago Pride Crosswalks project, the longest installation of its kind in the world, covering 14 intersections.
Circuit Mom Presents Drag Queen Drive In Fun Oct 16th
And now for something a little different –
Drive in Drag – just in time for Halloween!
2 shows on Friday October 16th, 2020
6pm and 8:30pm
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Aids Run Walk Chicago 2020
This month, the AIDS Foundation Chicago (AFC) is inviting Chicagoans to move “Forward Together” for the 19th annual AIDS Run & Walk. For the first time, the weeklong event – kicking off on Monday, Sept. 28th
CHOOSE YOUR WALK!
This year will feature 5K and 10K routes throughout various Chicago neighborhoods including Hyde Park, Uptown, the Loop and more to promote safety and minimize crowds. The AIDS Run & Walk will conclude at Soldier Field on Oct. 3 and raise vital funds and awareness for AFC, in addition to more than 20 community partner organizations that provide programs and services for those living with or vulnerable to HIV, AIDS and other chronical illness.
GRAB A FRIEND AND REGISTER NOW
Iconic Boystown Chicago to Get a Name Change
History is about to be erased and changed –
This is making National AND International news!
Chicago’s LGBTQ ‘hood has long been called ‘Boystown’, but business leaders have decided its time for a re-brand.
The move comes after a petition gained steam over the summer which described Boystown as the “only gendered nickname” of any city’s LGBTQ district. (The petition gained over 1,500 signatures, although a counter-petition to keep the name had over 2,000.)
HISTORY – The Boystown section of Lakeview was the first officially recognized gay village in the United States.
It is also the cultural center of one of the largest lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) communities in the nation. Boystown has grown into a cultural center for the LGBT residents living within the Chicago metropolitan area. The district’s informal boundaries, overlapping with Lakeview East, are Irving Park Road on the north, Broadway on the east, Wellington Avenue on the south, and Sheffield Avenue on the west. The Center on Halsted, an LGBT community center, is also located in this area.
Boystown is known for its colorful, lively nightlife and inviting atmosphere. Boystown also includes some of Chicago’s off-Loop theater, specialty restaurants, greystone and brownstone walk-up buildings and other historic architecture, trendy fashion outlets, wine boutiques, chain stores, and independent shops. The city’s annual Gays and Lesbians Chicago Pride Parade begins at the intersection of Montrose and Broadway, runs south along Broadway then Halsted to Belmont, turns east on Belmont to Broadway again, then south to Diversey, and then east to Sheridan Road.
From QUEERTY –“Systemic transphobia, racism, and sexism have plagued our neighborhood for decades, and it begins at the top, with the all-male board of the Northalsted Business Alliance. It begins with the BOYSTOWN signs down our street announcing that this neighborhood is ‘for the boys,’ though the signs hang above our diverse Legacy Walk of several LGBTQ icons in our history.
“To promote the inclusion of transgender, nonbinary, lesbian, and intersex individuals, we submit this petition for the Northalsted Business Alliance to simply follow the other LGBTQ neighborhoods across the world by marketing the area based on its location, North Halsted, not the majority gender of those people who sit on the Northalsted Business Alliance board This is only the beginning of the many changes needed in the North Halsted area.”
So what’s going to be the new name?????? WHO KNOW’S ?!
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Gay LGBTQ Diversity Night at Six Flags September 12th, 2020
OUT IN THE PARK will return for it’s ninth year, on September 12th, 2020!
Six Flags were given the green light to open their waterparks (Hurricane Harbor Gurnee & Rockford) last week and have begun hiring staff for the opening of the main park, which will happen in the coming weeks.
The Six Flags Re-Opening Plan was developed in coordination with expert epidemiologists and is designed to protect Six Flags guests and Team Members from potential exposure to COVID-19. Learn about their safety protocols HERE .
$45 advance Tickets are on sale now via smartphone or with a PC and printer. Details here.
Parking is FREE.
Season Passes are not accepted.
The private night event is 8pm – 12am. Only 5000 tickets will be sold.
The park will be open to the general public that day 11am-7pm. You may enter the park during the day if you wish to enjoy the park with the general public.
Round trip Bus tickets will be available – details soon.
Gay Bars forced to Stop Indoor Drinking
GAY BARS forced to close down, again.
Indoor bar service has officially shut down for a second time in Chicago as several heightened restrictions took effect Friday following weeks of reopening progress during the coronavirus pandemic.
Devastating news for many businesses 🙁
Circuit Mom Pride Extravaganza June 19th
We hope you have been spending these last few weeks supporting your Black friends and family through protests, petitions, conversations with friends, family, and elected officials, and donations to various causes as we continue to fight for racial equity and equality in this nation. This fight is by no means over, but we have to remember this is a marathon and not a sprint, so it is important to take moments for ourselves.
As a way to facilitate a break (if it feels appropriate to you) we are bringing you a PRIDE edition of our long awaited virtual show celebrating the intersectionality of BIPOC and the LGBTQ+ community from 7-11pm Central Time on Friday June 19th, 2020. Which happens to be the 155th anniversary of Juneteenth, the day Major General Gordon Granger landed in Galveston, Texas with the news that the slaves were free.
This virtual show is filled with some of Chicago’s best talent such as Black Girl Magic’s The Vixen, Dida Ritz, Lucy Stoole, Sasha Love, Bambi-Banks Coulee, and Miss Toto, Ballroom star the Legendary Myah Lanvin, rapper KC Ortiz, pole dancer Ang Hell, Sheeza Woman, Aunty Chan, Joffrey ballet dancer and heels choreographer Fernando Duarte, Trans Chicago’s Valeria Mendez, Ginger Valdez, and Andrea Magia Mendez, Catfight lead singer Molly Callinan, The Baton’s Joan Jullian and Jacky Ireta Couture, DJ Ale Maes, Grammy nominated DJ and Producer Ralphi Rosario, and of course the one and only CircuitMOM.
This online event will be streamed across Twitch, circuitmom.com, and Facebook Live, and in an effort to keep progress moving forward will benefit Black Lives Matter and Trans Chicago from the Puerto Rican Cultural Center. Prepare to pull out your phones and tip these performers down. We appreciate anything and everything you are able to give.
Chicago Gay PrideFest June 20-21
Chicago Pride Fest is BACK ON for June 20-21!
It was previously announced that Pride Fest, the Pride Parade and Market Days were being canceled or rescheduled, due to the Covid 19 restrictions and limitations.
This morning it was announced that plans are underway to put together a 2 night virtual celebration of Pride Fest streaming for Free to Chicago and the world!
Chicago Pride Fest Goes Virtual
Chicago Pride Fest will mark its 20th year with a virtual festival format. On June 20-21, the Northalsted Business Alliance brings Boystown to the world with a streaming Chicago Pride Fest celebrating the love, life and diversity of Chicago’s LGBTQ+ community. Running from 7 pm to 9 pm both nights, the streaming Twitch event will feature a full line-up with entertainment, activism, greetings and more.
Virtual gate donations will benefit Boystown community programming, the Center on Halsted and Howard Brown Health.
Northalsted President Ramesh Ariyanayakam acknowledges how different things will look this year. “Right now our focus is all about planning a Pride celebration for the digital ages. We know this virtual festival will bring much needed connection and hope to our community and beyond and are thrilled to produce this event.”
More details at pridefestchicago . A full programming line-up will be available in June .
AIDS Garden Chicago Gets 30′ Haring Sculpture
AIDS GARDEN CHICAGO TO UNVEIL SIGNATURE 30-FOOT KEITH HARING SCULPTURE, SELF-PORTRAIT, THIS FALL, COMPLETING FIRST PHASE OF NEW PUBLIC LAKEFRONT GARDEN
In partnership with the Chicago Parks Foundation, the new AIDS Garden Chicago will memorialize the early days of Chicago’s HIV epidemic & honor those who continue to fight against the disease
The Chicago Parks Foundation today announced that the first phase of the new AIDS Garden Chicago will be complete this Fall with the unveiling of a specially-commissioned 30-foot-high sculpture, Self-Portrait, by iconic HIV/AIDS activist and artist, the late Keith Haring. (Precise installation date to be announced.) AIDS Garden Chicago will be the city’s first public monument to memorialize the early days of Chicago’s HIV epidemic and to honor those who continue to fight against the disease today. As previously released, the new 2.5-acre public lakefront garden will be located along Lake Michigan just south of Belmont Harbor, at the original location of the ‘Belmont Rocks,’ a space where the local gay community gathered between the 1960s and 1990s.
“The fight against HIV/AIDS represents more than a health epidemic: it symbolizes a time in our history when the LGBTQ+ and ally communities came together in the face of tragedy,” said Mayor Lori E. Lightfoot. “We lost countless neighbors and friends and relatives over the years, but we have made significant strides in combatting the virus. What was one of the darkest moments of the 20th century has given way to a blooming garden of hope and love; this new AIDS Garden Chicago will serve as a permanent reminder of how far we have come and as a way to honor those who continue the work of getting to zero new HIV infections.”
“The Chicago Parks Foundation is so honored to be a part of this historic and legacy project for the city and all the communities and individuals who have been affected and still are living with HIV/AIDS. We are far from eradicating the disease, but this garden and iconic Keith Haring sculpture will serve as a beacon of hope and unity for all. This is truly a park with a purpose and a message,” said Chicago Parks Foundation Executive Director Willa Lang.
“We have worked closely with some of our longtime community leaders, held meetings with various community groups and are now excited to start phase one of this overdue project,” said Alderman Tom Tunney (44). “Self-Portrait’s new home at AIDS Garden Chicago, in the 44th Ward, is a small but powerful way to continue talking about the epidemic as we fight to bring both HIV infections and AIDS-related deaths to zero.”
Bold, bright green and nearly three stories high, Self-Portrait will be the largest iteration of this popular sculpture that has ever been fabricated, and the Chicago Parks Foundation expects it to be the Garden’s signature anchor and gathering point. Working with the Chicago Park District and designed by landscape architects Design Workshop, AIDS Garden Chicago is set to be complete in 2020 and will include unique areas designed for reflection, education, honor, and pride. Visitors will be guided with markers and milestones through a variety of intimate and collective garden spaces to be coordinated and maintained by community gardeners still in formation. This park garden will provide a sensory nature experience; the most notable being a memorable grove of Gingko trees and a perennial garden of natural plantings at the entrance. A serpentine path will be the site for future temporary art installations organized by community partners.
Self-Portrait is provided to AIDS Garden Chicago through a generous gift from the Keith Haring Foundation with personal financial support from Alderman Tom Tunney that was matched by the Alphawood Foundation Chicago. Rosenthal Fine Art, which facilitated the conversation with the Haring Foundation, was established here in 1986 and has most recently been dedicated to making art more accessible to the public through partnerships with private developers and city agencies.
Keith Haring (1958-1990) generously contributed his talents and resources to numerous causes. In 1989, Haring established a foundation to ensure that his philanthropic legacy would continue indefinitely. The Keith Haring Foundation supports arts and educational institutions by funding exhibitions, educational programs, and publications that serve to contextualize and illuminate the artist’s work and philosophy.
Alderman Tom Tunney and the Chicago Parks Foundation thank all the valuable partners still in formation and continuing to grow, including the Keith Haring Foundation, AIDS Foundation of Chicago, Alphawood Foundation Chicago, Center on Halsted, Friends of the Parks, Howard Brown Health, and Legacy Project. The Chicago Parks Foundation welcomes additional financial partners to help bring the project to completion.
The Chicago Parks Foundation, the charitable partner to the Chicago Park District, was established in 2013 as a nonprofit to operate in a private-public partnership in support of Chicago’s parks, independent and collaborative in spirit. The Foundation facilitates over $2.3 million in grants annually that support Chicago parks and park programs. More information can be found at https://www.chicagoparksfoundation.org/
More information on AIDS Garden Chicago can be found at AIDSgardenchicago.org.
World of Chocolate Returns Dec. 5th
World of Chocolate is Chicago’s premier World AIDS Day event supporting the AIDS Foundation of Chicago’s efforts to mobilize communities, creating equity and justice for people living with and vulnerable to HIV and related chronic diseases.
World of Chocolate celebrates the imagination and ingenuity of our renowned chefs from across Chicago!
THURSDAY, DEC. 5, 2019, 6 – 9 P.M.
AT REVEL FULTON MARKET
Enter at 1215 W. Fulton Market (Fulton and Racine).
The closest CTA L stop is located at Morgan on the Pink/Green Lines.
Complimentary coat check is provided.
Tickets purchased before Dec. 3 will be held Will Call. Check in with your name or your ticket purchaser’s name. After Dec. 3, General Admission & VIP tickets are available at the door for $150 and $250 respectively.
Parking: We recommend using public transportation or taxis. Street parking is available in the neighborhood — check parking signs and pay boxes for information.
Dress to impress! Your favorite holiday cocktail attire/business casual is perfect for the evening.
VOTE for People’s Choice! During check in, you’ll receive a red marble to vote for your favorite chocolatier. The event is bigger and better than ever, so plan your night accordingly by perusing our chefs and menu for the evening.
At 8:30 p.m., we’ll have a special performance to announce the judges’ picks for Best Sweet, Best Savory, Best Libation, Best Small Business, Best Large Business and Best Sculpture.
Knock yourself out! Punch Board and Luxury Raffle prizes will be announced Monday, Nov. 11.
Share the fun! Help us get the buzz going on Facebook and Instagram by using #AFChocolate
