Category Archives: Non-Profits
World of Chocolate Chicago 2014
THE BEST EVENT OF THE HOLIDAY SEASON!
The air is getting colder and the holidays are near! With great cheer, we invite you to World of Chocolate. This festive tasting event benefitting the AIDS Foundation of Chicago is our annual commemoration of World AIDS Day.
Guests enjoy an open bar and rich chocolate delights from some of Chicago’s most creative and talented culinarians.
We are overjoyed to be hosting World of Chocolate again in the magnificent Great Hall of Union Station on Thursday, December 4.
Purchase your tickets online and savor the sweet satisfaction of making a difference!
Peace, love, sugar & spice,
-The World of Chocolate Architects
P.S. Keep up with us on Facebook and Twitter. Get exclusive insight into the making of World of Chocolate and a sneak peek at what our culinarians have to offer!
THE BIRDS by Hell In a Handbag
Looking for some good inexpensive fun this Fall? Back by POPULAR demand! Hell in a Handbag Productions is proud to present a re-imagined remount of one of their most popular shows, their adaptation of The Birds.
A wonderfully entertaining cast! Comedy, drag, excitement and more!
The Birds is both a ridiculous parody of the classic Hitchcock film and a look inside the mind of lead actress, Tippi Hedren. Camille Paglia, author and American social critic, serves as your guide in this odyssey and there’s a touch of David Lynch thrown in for good measure.
The space, The Coach House at Berger Park, 6205 N. Sheridan Rd. (Sheridan and Granville), is so charming and perfect! From the moment you walk in, the fun begins. Mr. Hitchcocks assistants meet you in the main house and walk you back to the coach house, which is the set of The Birds. You get to witness the “filming” of the Birds movie, but also get a sneak peak into what being on set, might have been like.
Meet newcomer, Tippi Hedren. Famed director, Alfred Hitchcock, has hand-picked her to star in the much anticipated follow-up to his smash hit film, Psycho. This film was to be called The Birds and it seemed like it would be a dream come true for any up and coming actress. And for a while it was…until it wasn’t.
Catherine McCafferty returns as fledgling actress, Tippi Hedren, whose journey begins her first day playing blonde socialite, Melanie Daniels. Melanie pursues the very dashing bachelor/lawyer, Mitchell Brenner, after a chance meeting in a pet shop. She secretly follows Mitch to Bodega Bay, a sleepy Oceanside town in Northern California. Melanie’s arrival marks the beginning of a series of bird attacks on the town. Movie history is about to be made.
Off camera, Alfred Hitchcock’s seemingly innocent interest in Ms. Hedren grew daily and he began teaching her film making. Unfortunately, what started as a brilliant director taking a novice under his wing suddenly turned into a harrowing experience for the naïve actress. Ms. Hedren experienced a terror far greater than any bird attack. We learn Alfred Hitchcock had a ravenous appetite for blondes and really sort of sexually harassed Hedren! In fact in 2012, HBO made THE GIRL which focused on Hitchcocks obsession with Hedrin!
While The Birds receives the full parody/homage treatment audiences have come to expect from Hell in a Handbag, the story takes a dark turn going inside the mind of Tippi Hedren who, as filming progresses, has trouble distinguishing the movie’s reality from her own.
Handbag ensemble members Ed Jones, Alex Grelle, Michael Hampton, Michael S. Miller, Lori Lee, Steve Love, Lolly Extract, Amber Marsh, and David Cerda are part of the large cast of characters. Also returning to the cast from 2013 are Steve Kimbrough (POSEIDON!) and Jamie Smith (Christmas Dearest). All the guys who perform as ladies, are just a riot of laughs!
Newcomers include Chazie Bly taking on the role of Mitchell Brenner/Rod Taylor, Lauren Miller as Peggy Robertson, the steely assistant to Mr. Hitchcock, Caitlin Coleman, and Christea Parent (Caged Dames) as Camille Paglia.
Handbag ensemble member, Cheryl Snodgrass (HAYWIRE!, Die! Mommie, Die!, The Rip Nelson Halloween Spooktacular, SCARRIE -The Musical, Límitation of Life) directs this year. “The Birds was my favorite film growing up so it feels like kismet to direct The Birds, my favorite Handbag script” says Snodgrass. “There are some big surprises in this year’s production, too While we’re still using Lake Michigan as Bodega Bay and Berger Park for the bird attacks, the newly renovated Coach House has inspired brilliant new concepts from the design team. More birds. More fun. Even if you’ve seen Handbag’s The Birds before – you have never seen anything like this one.”
Endorsed by none other than Ms. Tippi Hedren herself, The Birds stands out as one of Handbag’s most critically acclaimed and memorable shows. The environmental staging at the Coach House in Berger Park on Lake Michigan makes it a unique experience you won’t soon forget.
All Show times: 7:30 Admission: $17-$37
Matinee performances Oct. 18 and 25, 3pm
| Reservations: (800) 838-3006 or go to Brown Paper tickets online http://thebirds2014.bpt.me |
Hell in a Handbag Mission Statement
HIAH is dedicated to the preservation, exploration, and celebration of works ingrained in the realm of popular culture via theatrical productions through parody, music, and homage.
Handbag is a 501(c)(3) Not for Profit Corporation.
All photos by Rick Aguilar Studios.
Chicago House Celebrity Luncheon Oct. 15th
JUST A WEEK AWAY!
Chicago House is elated to announce its 6th Annual Speaker Series Luncheon, a conversation about Gender, Race, and Economic Disparity under the LGBTQ umbrella on October 15th, 2014 at the Hilton Grand Ballroom on 720 S. Michigan Avenue, Chicago, IL. The Panel Discussion and Moderated Q&A will begin at 12:30 PM with our esteemed speakers, Laverne Cox, an Emmy nominated transgender actress and LGBT activist, Jason Collins, a 13-year basketball veteran and the first openly gay NBA player, and Dustin Lance Black, social activist and Academy Award winning screenwriter for MILK. This year’s moderator is Gautam Raghavan, former LGBTQ advisor to President Obama and Vice President of Policy at the Gill Foundation. These three icons follow in the footsteps of previous speakers Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton, President Bill Clinton, Madeleine Albright, Whoopi Goldberg and Kenneth Cole, who have all shed light on the work of Chicago House relative to their efforts around the world.
The 6th Annual Speaker Series Luncheon marks a critical fundraising event for Chicago House’s desperately-needed services, and is an opportunity for a larger conversation on our nation’s growing inequality and disparity of wealth. Individuals who identify as LGBTQ are significantly more likely of being disadvantaged socio-economically. LGBTQ persons, despite having more education than the national average, make less money than their heterosexual and cisgender counterparts, particularly if they are African American. Chicago House seeks to respond to these alarming statistics by highlighting not only the great need, but also the moral imperative that the LGBTQ community has to care for its own members living in poverty.
As we approach our 30th anniversary, Chicago House looks to its origins focusing on HIV/AIDS, poverty, and LGBTQ persons. With the nation’s first and largest employment program for those with HIV/AIDS and our recently opened Translife Center, Chicago House continues its commitment to engage in action and conversations building towards a movement of inclusivity and economic advancement for those marginalized in the LGBTQ community. This is a conversation the entire community should be having; this is the next big issue we face.
Together, we stand at crossroads of progress in HIV/AIDS stigma, civil equality, and economic disparity. With your continued support, we may celebrate our victories and the lives of individuals and families that Chicago House serves.
We encourage you to be present for what we are sure will be a revolutionary event. To purchase tickets or to become a sponsor, contact Lori Byars at 773-248-5200 x209. Additional information is also available at www.chicagohouse.org.
Chicago House Speakers Luncheon October 15th
6th Anniversary Speaker Series Luncheon
Wednesday, October 15th from 11:30am – 2:00pm
Hilton Chicago | Grand Ballroom | 720 S. Michigan Avenue
Featuring:
Laverne Cox (Orange Is The New Black Actress)
Jason Collins (NBA Player)
Dustin Lance Black (MILK Screenwriter)
Buy Tickets at www.chicagohouse.org
Spearheading a much-needed conversation about race, gender identity, class and solidarity, they will all be joined with remarks by Chicago House CEO Stan Sloan during this much anticipated and inspirational afternoon!
Chicago House Speakers Series Oct. 15th
Please join us for the Inspirational Event of the season!
The Chicago House
6th Anniversary Speaker Series Luncheon
Wednesday, October 15th from 11:30am – 2:00pm
Hilton Chicago | Grand Ballroom | 720 S. Michigan Avenue
Featuring:
Laverne Cox (Orange Is The New Black Actress)
Jason Collins (NBA Player)
Dustin Lance Black (MILK Screenwriter)
Buy Tickets at www.chicagohouse.org
Spearheading a much-needed conversation about race, gender identity, class and solidarity, they will all be joined with remarks by Chicago House CEO Stan Sloan during this much anticipated and inspirational afternoon!
Led by Co-Chairs Chicago House Trustee Todd Hamilton of Bolder Capital and the founders of Global Act, a nonprofit agency committed to accelerating “understanding, ideas, partnerships, and activities to solve pressing issues,” guests will enjoy a three-course lunch in the Chicago Hilton’s beautiful Grand Ballroom. The event, now in its sixth year, expects nearly 1,000 attendees, and will kick off with a VIP reception, followed by a lunch presentation and panel discussion featuring Cox, Collins and Black.
“This event is the follow up answer to the question of, ‘How can you possibly rival Hillary Clinton as your speaker last September?’” says CEO Rev. Stan Sloan. “Our answer is to have a conversation that the whole nation should be having about poverty, gender identity, race and solidarity. It is very exciting for us to feature the insights and perspectives of Laverne Cox as a black transgender woman as well as other nationally known voices like Jason Collins and Dustin Lance Black!”
Buy Tickets at www.chicagohouse.org
Howard Brown Raises Minimum Wage
Effective immediately, Howard Brown Health Center (HBHC) is raising the minimum wage for Brown Elephant employees to $10.10/hour. The increase, in concert with President Obama’s recent executive order raising the minimum wage for federal contractors, represents HBHC’s investment in its hard working staff.
Since the late 1980s, Brown Elephant has been supporting HBHC’s health programs and services by selling gently used furniture, clothing, and media collected through community donations. Net proceeds on the resale of tens of thousands of donated items help HBHC offset the cost of charity healthcare for people who are low-income and uninsured.
“Brown Elephant employees assist more than 220,000 donors and shoppers annually and are the backbone of our mission providing LGBT-affirming healthcare that is accessible and affordable,” said David Ernesto Munar, HBHC President and CEO.
The policy change will help HBHC recruit and retain the skilled workforce needed to meet the demands of it retail social enterprise.
Thanks to the generosity of the Chicago community, HBHC’s Brown Elephant has grown to include three locations across Chicagoland:
Lakeview 3020 N. Lincoln Avenue
Andersonville 5404 N. Clark Street
Oak Park
217 Harrison Street,
Oak Park, IL 60304
708.445.0612
Andersonville and Oak Park locations are open daily from 11:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. The Lakeview location is open daily from 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Chicago House Film Night for TransLife Center Aug. 2nd
CHICAGO HOUSE has a new and exciting benefit night they are launching! This is going to a very special event!!
AWARD-WINNING HOLLYWOOD DIRECTORS/PRODUCERS ANDY AND LANA WACHOWSKI TO OPEN UP PRIVATE STUDIO FOR “TRANSREELIZATION” ON AUGUST 2
The Matrix series. V for Vendetta. Cloud Atlas. For years, Andy and Lana Wachowski, the award-winning directors and producers of these films, have kept their Hollywood secrets hidden from the general public. But on Saturday, Aug. 2, the sibling duo is thrilled to offer an exclusive opportunity to join them at their private, 20,000-square foot industrial movie production studio in Edgewater – all to benefit Chicago House’s TransLife Center.
The inaugural event, TransReelization: An Evening of Film at Kinowerks Studio, will give attendees the chance to enjoy cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, a silent auction and a selection of films at the Wachowskis’ studio at 5645 N Ravenswood Avenue.
Kinowerks Studio is renowned for its “cleverly sustainable design elements and the best of green technology,” and is lined with Wachowski artifacts, trophies and memorabilia from their films.
“We are delighted to host this event supporting the TransLife Center,” Lana Wachowski said, “for a cause that’s near and dear to our hearts.”
Lana herself identifies as transgender, and over recent years she’s accepted numerous awards for her work pertaining to trans issues, including the Human Rights Campaign’s (HRC) Visibility Award in 2012.
“Invisibility is indivisible from visibility,” Wachowski said in her HRC acceptance speech. “For the transgender community this is not simply a philosophical conundrum – it can be the difference between life and death.”
VIP guests will have the opportunity for an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour of the studio guided by Lana prior to the start of the event.
All guests will get a comprehensive look into trans* issues with a full selection of short films that address gender-related topics set to play beginning at 7 p.m. The films include I Am A Girl!, I’m Yours, Gender Games, Sisterhood, a trailer for MAJOR!, and an exclusive sneak preview of Black is Blue.
The TransLife Center, Chicago House’s newest initiative, which opened its doors in July 2013, provides comprehensive programming and support to transgender individuals that seek housing, health, legal and employment services.
Support the life changing work of Chicago House’s TransLife Center today, and buy your tickets for TransReelization online at www.chicagohouse.org.
ALCC brings SOUL TRAIN party to Sidetrack for August
SOUL TRAIN theme! Love it!
AIDS Legal Council of Chicago (ALCC) is proud to announce that its annual summer benefit is set for Wednesday, August 20, from 6 to 9pm at Sidetrack in Chicago.
This year’s theme is Soul Train and will feature cocktails by Sidetrack the Video Bar, specialty catering by Food for Thought, entertainment, a grand raffle, and a spectacular silent auction.
The auction will be done via mobile bidding at the event and online for those who are unable to attend. The auction will open online one week prior to the event and close at 8:30pm on August 20. Raffle and silent auction prizes include round-trip tickets to Europe courtesy of Orbitz; Chicago neighborhood entertainment and food packages; professional sports tickets; a Tesla Motors package; and hotel stays from various brands such as Hilton, Kimpton, Swissotel, Caesars Palace, Maui Sunseeker, Millennium, and more.
Tickets, which benefit ALCC’s free legal service programs, are just $50 and can be purchased at www.soultrain2014.eventbrite.com or by calling 312-427-8990.
AIDS Legal Council of Chicago uses the power of the law to secure health, dignity, and stability for people impacted by HIV and other life-changing health conditions.
Chicago House BirdHouse Art Auction June 26
Thursday, June 26th, 2014, from 6pm -9pm – it’s the Annual Chicago House Birdhouse Art Auction!
Enjoy Cocktails and hors d’oeuvres while bidding on artwork and birdhouses from the city’s most unique designers! Functional birdhouses, funky art, and auction pieces for any shopper!
Each year, Chicago House celebrates Pride week with their famous Birdhouse Art Auction, where unique birdhouses and funky artwork are auctioned to benefit those living with HIV or AIDS.
Located at Room & Board’s gorgeous downtown store, guests are invited to toast to the summer season with delicious drinks and hors d’oeuvres while bidding on artwork and birdhouses from the city’s most unique designers.
See photos from the 2013 Birdhouse Art Auction!
GET TICKETS NOW!
Dance for Life: Inspiring Chicago, One Dance at a Time August 16th
Dance for Life: Inspiring Chicago, One Dance at a Time
Chicago’s Leading Dance Troupes Unite to Raise Funds for
HIV/AIDS Prevention and Services on Aug. 16
WHAT: Experience a night of awe-inspiring performances as six of Chicago’s top dance companies come together for one evening at Dance for Life, the largest performance-based AIDS fundraising event in the Midwest. With poignant choreography and moving music, this highly anticipated event is held annually to raise awareness and funds for HIV/AIDS care, education and prevention while promoting the art of dance in Chicago.
Since 1992 Dance for Life has raised millions of dollars to support the cause.
This year, Dance for Life Chicago features two electrifying, world-premiere performances by renowned choreographers Randy Duncan, Harrison McEldowney and Jeremy Plummer.
Funds raised through this year’s Dance for Life Chicago benefit the AIDS Foundation of Chicago, The Dancers’ Fund, Agape Missions, NFP and MADE: Making A Daily Effort.
WHO: Participating Companies Include:
• Giordano Dance Chicago
• Joffrey Ballet
• River North Dance Chicago
• Hubbard Street Dance Chicago
• Ensemble Español Spanish Dance Theater
• Visceral Dance Chicago
WHEN: Saturday, Aug. 16, 2014
5:00 p.m. – Gala Reception – Hilton Chicago Grand Ballroom (720 S. Michigan Ave.)
8:00 p.m. – Dance for Life Performance – Auditorium Theatre of Roosevelt University (50 E. Congress Pkwy.)
*Complimentary shuttle bus service provided between the two venues.
COST: $25-$75 (performance only)
$250- $600 (includes admission to 5:00 p.m. gala reception and premiere seating at the performance)
To purchase tickets, please call 312-922-5812 or visit www.danceforlifechicago.org
WHERE: Performance – Auditorium Theatre of Roosevelt University, 50 E. Congress Pkwy., Chicago
Gala Reception – Hilton Chicago, 720 South Michigan Ave., Chicago
Connect with Dance for Life on Facebook!
About Dance for Life
Dance for Life raises awareness and funds for HIV/AIDS care, prevention and education, while promoting the art of dance in Chicago. Realizing that AIDS had heavily affected the dance community, Dance for Life was founded in 1992 as an inventive way for dancers and dance companies, whose incomes do not normally allow for large donations, to be able to contribute time, effort and badly needed funds for existing AIDS agencies. Check us out online on the Dance for Life website or on Facebook.
About The Dancers’ Fund
The Dancers’ Fund, a funding program of Dance for Life, was created in 1994 as a one of a kind fund with the mission to provide emergency financial assistance to dancers living with HIV/AIDS and has since expanded to include any life-threatening illness. The Dancers’ Fund provides immediate financial assistance for those facing life-threatening illness, injury or circumstance. Designed to help qualified individuals meet their immediate financial obligations while dealing with life-threatening conditions, The Dancers’ Fund is available to Chicago-based, professionally trained working dancers and those whose primary source of income is derived by serving the dance community.
IGNITE with AIDS Foundation Chicago Friday May 16th
This space is very cool for an event!
Ignite Glass Studio!
Light our fight.
Ignite our future.
Igniting our 30th year of service –
AIDS Foundation of Chicago
IGNITE Fantastic Rooftop party coming May 16th!
Open bar, delectable world fare and dancing. Guests will also enjoy live glass artistry, roof-top views of the sunset over the skyline, and chances to win Luxury Vacation Packages in our raffle.
Friday, May 16 – 6-9PM | Tickets: $185
A short speaking program will begin at 7:15 pm with Senator Durbin presenting the Civic Leadership Award. Dancing to follow afterwards with DJ Marc “Moose” Moder
Click here for the listing of our Luxury Vacation Raffle Packages.
The Tree of Hope will also be on display for those who wish to directly support AFC’s programs and services.
Ignite Glass Studio – Map
401 North Armour Street
Chicago, Illinois 60642
Valet parking will be available upon arrival at 401 North Armour Street.
IGNITE Chicago Rooftop Party for AFC May 16th
Light our fight. Ignite our future.
Igniting our 30th year of service –
AIDS Foundation of Chicago
IGNITE Fantastic Rooftop party coming May 16th!
Open bar, delectable world fare and dancing. Guests will also enjoy live glass artistry, roof-top views of the sunset over the skyline, and chances to win Luxury Vacation Packages in our raffle.
Friday, May 16 – 6-9PM | Tickets: $185
Ignite Glass Studio – Map
401 North Armour Street
Chicago, Illinois 60642
Valet parking will be available upon arrival at 401 North Armour Street.
Chicago Gay Mens Chorus Upcoming Shows
Chicago Gay Men’s Chorus (CGMC)
celebrates the best of last decade of Broadway with “Bouncing of the Walls: Broadway Our Way.”
CGMC reimagines audience’s favorite modern day musicals of Broadway from the last 10 years with dazzling dances and sensational songs. This show brings the Great White Way to the Great Middel West. “Bouncing of the Walls: Broadway Our Way” will revisit memorable Broadway shows including: “Wicked,” “The Book of Mormon,” “Kinky Boots,” “Newsies” and many more.
WHEN/WHERE: Chicago Gay Mens Chorus
- Saturday, May 3, 2014 – 7:30pm
- Emmanuel Lutheran Church – 920 3rd Avenue; Rockford, IL 61104
- Saturday, May 17, 2014 – 8:00pm
- North Shore Center for the Performing Arts – 9501 Skokie Boulevard; Skokie, IL 60077
- Saturday, May 31, 2014- 8:00pm
- Harris Theater – 205 East Randolph Street; Chicago, IL 60601
- Sunday, June 1, 2014 – 8:00pm
- Wentz Concert Hall – 717 East Chicago Avenue; Naperville, IL 60540
Tickets range from $20-$50 depending on the venue and service fees. For ticket information and general information about the Chicago Gay Men’s Chorus, please visit www.cgmc.org or call 773-296-0541.
About Chicago Gay Men’s Chorus
Now celebrating its 30th anniversary, Chicago Gay Men’s Chorus (CGMC) was founded in 1983 and has grown to become one of the Midwest’s largest volunteer LGBT arts organizations. The chorus has entertained audiences across North America with innovative musical programming, original musical revues, five popular productions celebrating the Sidetrack showtune experience, full-length book musicals including The Wizard of Oz, The Mikado and H.M.S. Pinafore, and traditional choral concerts, all punctuated with its signature joyous irreverence. Inducted into the City of Chicago’s Gay and Lesbian Hall of Fame in 2001 and under the artistic direction of Patrick Sinozich since 1997, CGMC continues to be an integral part of Chicago’s civic and cultural community by carrying out its mission to entertain, educate, comfort and motivate.
Chicago Gay Mens Chorus is also the beneiciary of this years HEATWAVE event in November.
This will sell out! Book your room early! www.HeatwaveChicago.com
About Face Theatre Chicago WONKA BALL May 9th
About Face Theatre invites guests to “come on down” and celebrate its 18th year with a throwback to daily doubles, Plinko, free spins and lifelines at WONKA BALL 2014: The Gayme Show! on Friday, May 9, 2014 at 8 pm at Macy’s on State Street in the 9th Floor Event Center, 111 N. State St. in Chicago.
AFT’s annual fundraiser will celebrate TV’s iconic game shows with an evening of classic challenges, live entertainment, music and dancing, sumptuous edibles and an open bar with signature cocktails. Guests will be tempted to “make a deal” with a raffle and silent and live auctions – all with exciting prizes worthy of a Showcase Showdown! Like Lets Make a Deal and Price is Right!
The evening will also include the annual presentation of the prestigious 2014 Leppen Leadership Awards and the About Face Youth Theatre MVP Award. Tickets are currently available at www.aboutfacetheatre.com or (773) 784-8565.
WONKA BALL 2014: The Gayme Show! Co-Chairs are Benjamin Sprunger and Betsy Sylvester.
Proceeds from the WONKA BALL 2014: The Gayme Show! will support About Face Theatre’s award-winning mainstage programming, new play development series and nationally-recognized educational program. Since 1995, About Face has created exceptional, innovative, and adventurous plays that advance the national dialogue on gender and sexual identity and have entertained and challenged audiences in Chicago, across the country and around the world. Support from Wonka Ball enables About Face to thrive as Chicago’s celebrated center for LGBTQA arts, an inclusive home where diverse artists, youth, audiences and community partners come together for artistic exchange and cultural dialogue.
EVENT DETAILS:
Event: WONKA BALL 2014: The Gayme Show!
Date: Friday, May 9 from 8 pm – 11 pm;
Location: Macy’s on State Street, 9th Floor Event Center, 111 N. State St. in Chicago
Details: Featuring games, music and dancing, sumptuous edibles, an open bar with signature cocktails, a raffle and live and silent auctions.
Tickets: $150.
Legacy Project Teams with Equality House to Showcase LGBT Contributions
This coming weekend, the Legacy Project will officially unveil its first-ever satellite-installation at Equality House in Topeka,Kansas – across the street from the infamous Westboro Baptist Church.
The event is part of a series of planned weekend festivities — following GLSEN’s National “Day of Silence” on April 11th — to protest the bullying and harassment faced by Lesbian, Gay,Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) students and their supporters.
The grand opening of the Legacy Project installation at Equality House will begin with a two-hour reception starting at noon on Saturday April 12th. Following the open house, those gathered will join the anti-bullying march to the Kansas State Capital, sponsored by the Unitarian Universalist Church.
“We’re very proud and excited to be part of this important occasion,” said Victor Salvo, Co-Founder and Executive Director of the Legacy Project in making the announcement. “This ground-breaking initiative in America’s heartland is a natural extension of our continuing mission to redress the redaction of LGBT figures and events from history, which is central to the Legacy Project’s comprehensive strategy to challenge the ignorance which fuels anti-gay bullying.”
The partnership with Equality House began in the spring of 2013 when the Legacy Project honored Aaron Jackson for his bold and pioneering work in creating Equality House. After touring the Legacy Walk in person, Jackson proposed the Legacy Project’s first-ever exhibit outside of Chicago be located at Equality House in the shadow of the Westboro Baptist Church – renowned world-wide for its unbridled anti-gay hatred and “God Hates Fags” mantra. After nearly a year of planning, the installation of the new permanent display in Kansas was completed in mid-March 2014.
“Most people learn about people like themselves all the time,” said Salvo. “But the selective editing done to the lives of LGBT historic figures forces LGBT youth to grow up without any historically significant role models – leaving them unaware of the contributions people just like them have been making for centuries, unable to see that they are among the newest generation of a long line of gifted people who have made a difference in the world we all share.”
“Public ignorance about the accomplishments of LGBT people forces sexual minorities to exist in a void – socially isolated, culturally marginalized, without historical relevance, and subject to the political and cultural biases that permeate our society — leaving them vulnerable to the violence such ignorance can incite.”
“Recent statistics have revealed that every hour fifty (50) teens attempt suicide in the United States. The majority of them are LGBT youth bombarded by the message that they are ‘less than’ others,” continued Salvo. “That is why the Legacy Project is urgently committed to making sure our kids know that people like them matter – and have always mattered – even if nobody has ever bothered to tell them. The significance and symbolism of bringing that message to the doorstep of the Westboro Baptist Church – of all places – should be lost on no one.”
The Legacy Project is funded entirely by donations. Its permanent exhibit at Equality House will be open to the public year-round, free of charge.
Included in the Equality House installation in Topeka are tributes to:
Jane Addams | Social Justice Pioneer
Bayard Rustin | Civil Rights Visionary
Alan Turing | The Father of Computer Science
Alexander the Great | King of Macedonia/Greatest Soldier of All Time
David Kato | Ugandan LGBT Activist/Martyr for LGBT Civil Rights
Frances Perkins | U.S. Secretary of Labor/Architect of FDR’s “New Deal”
Fr. Mychal Judge | Roman Catholic Priest/”The Saint of 9/11″
Leonard Bernstein | Renowned Conductor of the New York Philharmonic
Sally Ride | First U.S. Woman in Space
Michelangelo | World Famous Artist and Sculptor
Tchaikovsky | Legendary Composer
Barbara Jordan | Iconic U.S. Congresswoman
George Washington Carver | Renowned Agronomist
Eleanor Roosevelt | First Lady/Influential Activist and Diplomat
Two Spirit People | Indigenous North American LGBT People
Sumner Welles | Asst. Secretary of State/Founder of N.A.T.O.
Baron Von Steuben | Secretary General of the American Revolutionary War
Josephine Baker| World War II Hero/U.S. Civil Rights Activist
Brown Elephant Resale in Boystown Is Moving
Sad news today….
In July, Howard Brown Health Center’s (HBHC) flagship Brown Elephant Resale Shop in Lakeview will move to a new location at 3020 N. Lincoln Avenue. For over two decades, the popular Brown Elephant shop, currently on Halsted, has been an outlet for gently used vintage clothing, furniture, electronics, and other items in the Lakeview community.
“The new location will offer our loyal customers a warm, inviting retail experience,” said David Ernesto Munar, HBHC’s President and CEO. “The Lincoln Avenue space will enhance our ability to meet the health needs of LGBTQ people and our allies. The store is better suited for the resale operation and collection of donations. A flexible floor plan and private offices will allow us to host community events and on-site services.”
HBHC established the Brown Elephant in the 1980s to support a full continuum of affordable health-related programs and services for low-income LGBTQ people and allies. The revenue generated by donations and purchases support essential health care for thousands of uninsured and under-insured patients each year.
The current location at 3651 N. Halsted will keep normal business hours (daily from 11:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.) until the end of June. Effective July, HBHC’s Brown Elephant locations will be:
Brown Elephant in Lakeview
3020 N. Lincoln Avenue
773.549.5943
Brown Elephant in Andersonville
5404 N. Clark Street
773.271.9382
Brown Elephant in Oak Park
217 Harrison Street
708.445.0612
Tax-deductible donations of household items, furniture, electronics or apparel can be made at any location. To learn about pick-up options go to http://www.howardbrown.org/hb_brownelephant.asp or dial 773.549.5943 Ext. 1.
“The Brown Elephant is much more than a resale store but a way for individuals to give back to their community,” Munar said.
In the months leading up to the move, HBHC will host a series of community town-hall meetings at the store on Halsted and its new location to invite public input on LGBTQ health needs and topics. Public input will support a community health needs assessment, conducted by HBHC every five years. The schedule of discussion topics and meeting facilitators is forthcoming.
“We are so grateful to the tens of thousands of shoppers and donors who have generously supported LGBTQ health via the flagship Brown Elephant for over two decades,” Munar said. “As we plan for the shop’s new location, there is not a more fitting use of the space on Halsted than to invite community input to help shape future health and wellness initiatives to better serve the community.”
Dining For Life April 24th in Chicago
Designer Mondo Guerra (Under the Gunn, Project Runway All-Stars), Ted Allen, host of Food Network’s popular show Chopped, Pam Grier (Foxy Brown, Jackie Brown) and chef Daisy Martinez from Food Network’s ¡Viva Daisy! contributed their images and voices to Dining Out For Life hosted by Subaru® for the HIV/AIDS fundraiser’s new animated superhero-themed Public Service Announcement.
The fearless foursome encourage diners to “Take Action and Be a Hero” by participating in Dining Out For Life hosted by Subaru, bringing food-lovers and restaurants together to help AIDS Service Organizations across the country on one incredible day of dining on Thursday, April 24th. “We are all heroes in the fight. The important thing to keep in mind is that we need to continue the conversation about HIV/AIDS,” noted Mondo Guerra.
ShootersINC came to the table with production led by Mark Reidenauer and Matthew Licht. Senior Designer Mike Mullen created the retro-styled comic book look for the animation, and also created and animated caricatures of the four celebrity heroes. View the 2014 Dining Out For Life® PSA here.To find restaurants near you participating in Dining Out For Life hosted by Subaru, please visit diningoutforlife.com.
To keep up with the latest event and HIV/AIDS news, like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter. For mouth-watering food photos, follow Instagram: DiningOut4Life.
On Thursday, April 24th, 2014, celebrate food, friends and a great cause at our 20th annual Dining Out For Life! Last year, Chicago raised over $115,000 to continue its mission of providing housing with life services to men, women & children living with HIV/AIDS. This year we hope to raise even more! You can help make a difference by joining us along with 60 other cities throughout North America and Nigeria and dine out on Thursday, April 24th!
Dine Out. Fight AIDS.
About Dining Out for Life®
Dining Out For Life began in Philadelphia in 1991 and has since grown into an international event held in 60+ cities across North America – raising an average $4.25 million annually. The idea behind the single-day event is simple and effective: Dine Out, Fight AIDS. Each restaurant donates a percentage of the day’s food sales, which goes to local organizations to fund care, prevention, education, testing, counseling and other essential HIV/AIDs services. For more information, visit www.diningoutforlife.com or Facebook/DiningOut4Life.
AIDS Foundation Chicago IGNITES in May
Ignite Sparks a New Era for the AIDS Foundation of Chicago
Annual fundraising event takes on a new look and ignites hope for the HIV community
WHAT: Light up your night at the AIDS Foundation of Chicago’s annual spring event Ignite: Light our Fight. Ignite Our Future on Friday, May 16. Kindle your creativity with live glass blowing demonstrations by top artists. Enjoy drinking cocktails, worldly cuisine and dancing the night away to music from DJ Moose. This year, the event will take place at a new location: Ignite Glass Studios, offering guests a chance to enjoy the modern space both indoors and out. The event will kickoff AFC’s 30th year of service.
AFC will honor two of distinguished advocates—Michael Bauer, Civic Leadership Award; and Robert Mink, Volunteer of the Year Award.
Funds raised through Ignite will support AFC’s policy, outreach and public education programs. AFC is the largest source of private HIV/AIDS philanthropic support in the Midwest. To learn more visit www.aidschicago.org.
WHEN: Friday, May 16, 6 p.m. to 10 p.m.
WHERE: Ignite Glass Studios, 401 North Armour Street, Chicago, IL 60642.
TICKETS: Admission: $185 — Includes heavy appetizers, live glass-blowing demonstrations, open bar and dancing.
For tickets and information, www.aidschicago.org/ignite or call (312) 334-0935.
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