Chicago's Gay Pride Parade 2009

For forty years, Chicago's GLBT community has been showing their colors each summer in their annual parade. Gay, lesbian, transgender, transsexual, and bisexual people, and those who support their rights, will be out in full force again this June. It's been a roller coaster year for GLBT folks: California, previously thought to be one of the most progressive of states, voted to rescind marriage rights for same-sex couples. As if in response, many other states held their own votes, all of them ending in a victory for gay civil rights. On this fortieth anniversary of Chicago's gay pride parade, it's particularly important for the community to gather in support of each other.

If you're thinking of attending this year's parade, here's a guide with everything you need to know.

What Happens?

Simply put, the Chicago Pride Parade is a chance for GLBT Chicagoans to be loud and proud. It's also a chance for straight supporters to show their true colors, so you can expect to see a few politicians courting the gay vote. In the past, former Governor Rod Blagojevich and former treasurer Judy Baar Topinka both appeared, garnering strong support from gay voters at election time. There will be floats, signs, slogans, outrageous performances, and lots and lots of people jockeying for a space to watch it all. Last year's attendance hovered around the 450,000 mark.

When?

The parade will be taking place on June 28th at noon. If you prefer to watch at home, you should know that the parade isn't broadcast live on TV. However, a local station usually films some of the parade and plays footage later. Closer to the event, more details about potential broadcasts will be available. In the past, ABC7 Chicago has broadcast parade footage.

Where?

The parade route runs from Halsted and Belmont, heading north to Broadway then south on Broadway to Diversey and Cannon Drive, in Lincoln Park. If you plan on taking public transportation, The Orange Line will take you to the Halsted area.

What Should I Know?

As a spectator, it's important to keep a few things in mind:

Get there early. If you don't feel like fighting the crowds for a good vantage point, it's best to stake out a spot an hour or two in advance.

Bring your own snacks and drinks. It's particularly important to stay hydrated, as the weather can be quite toasty in late June.

Wear sunscreen, a hat, and whatever else you need to protect yourself and your skin from the heat.

Keep an open mind. Expect wacky and risqué things to happen - the parade is all about being open and having fun without worrying about what people expect.

Portable restrooms and barricades will be placed along the parade route; so far, sponsors have agreed to place a total of fourteen, and you can expect many more to be claimed as the parade draws closer.

What Else Is Happening?

Since the Parade closes out Chicago's Pride Week, there are plenty of events leading up to it. Most notably, the Chicago Pride Fest will be going down on June 26th and 27th at Halsted & Waveland. It's hosted by the Northalsted Area Merchants Association, and features many different food, craft, and other venues. There will be entertainment from members of the GLBT community and fun to be had for all. Festivities kick off at 3pm on Friday and 11am on Saturday. For more information, see their website.

How Can I Found Out More?

Since the parade is still almost two months away, a lot of information hasn't been released yet. The most reliable source for all the info you need is the Chicago Pride Calendar, which will be updated throughout the month of June with information as it becomes available.

If there's something specific you need to know, get in touch with:

Richard Pfeiffer at PRIDEChicago
3712 N. Broadway-PMB 544
Chicago, IL 60613
(773) 348-8243

E-Mail: Pridechgo@aol.com

If you decide to attend this year's Pride Parade in Chicago, have fun - and take lots of pictures!

Sources

"Chicago Pride Calendar." ChicagoPrideCalendar.org.