James Meeks Visits Ann Sather's in Lakeview

Ann Sather's Restaurant located at 909 West Belmont Avenue in Chicago's Lakeview neighborhood was where mayoral candidate James Meeks visited with diners, Wednesday, December 8, 2010. Trying to reach out to the gay community, Meeks wanted patrons to see and hear him, as well as talk to him in person as opposed to only knowing him through the media or sound bytes. Alderman Tom Tunney of the 44th Ward, the City of Chicago's first openly gay member, who also owns Ann Sather's Restaurant, did not allow the media or cameras into the restaurant during the visit.

Although Meeks got a polite reception from the customers, it was a bit cold. This, and other visits to Chicago neighborhoods is Meeks plan to tour 50 wards in 50 days. James Meeks, who is a Democratic state senator and the pastor of the Salem Baptist Church in Chicago, has been an opponent of gay marriage and sometimes criticized by the gay community for his stance on civil unions. Prior to his visit at Ann Sather's, Meeks visited Equality Chicago and in an interview, expressed his desire to protect gay and lesbian rights.