Lightfoot ushers in Pride Month at EQIL kickoff brunch

Chicago, IL - Mayor Lori Lightfoot helped kicked off Pride Month at Equality Illinois' third annual Pride Month kickoff brunch on Sunday.

Chicago's first openly-gay mayor said the city has made progress with the LGBTQ community, but there's more work to be done.

"We still have way too many youth who are homeless who have been kicked out of their homes because they're choosing to live their authentic life," she said.

Lightfoot also noted other issues within the community, including healthcare and the fight for transgender rights.

"This is an undeniably proud moment for the LGBTQ community, which continues to break down barriers," said Equality Illinois CEO Brian C. Johnson. "Mayor Ligthfoot is a true champion of advancing justice and equality for LGBTQ people and all historically marginalized communities."

More than 300 guests, elected officials and community leaders attended the June 2 brunch at Venue West.

State Representative Lamont Robinson and community leader Channyn Lynne Parker were the Masters of Ceremony.

Victor Salvo, Executive Director of The Legacy Project, and Robert Fojtik, who currently serves as an Advisor to Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot, were recognized at the Pride Brunch with the 2019 Equality Illinois Community Pride award.

Lightfoot has been named Honorary Grand Marshal for this year's Chicago Pride Parade. She will be marching near the front of the parade as did her predecessors Mayor Richard M. Daley and Mayor Rahm Emanuel.

Chicago's 50th annual parade steps off at noon on Sunday, June 30.

Related: Lightfoot named Honorary Grand Marshal of 2019 Chicago Pride Parade