Mayor Emanuel proclaims June as LGBT Pride Month in Chicago

Chicago, IL - Mayor Rahm Emanuel issues a proclamation recognizing June as Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) Pride month in Chicago.

It reads:

WHEREAS, the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) communities of Chicagoland are an integral part of the vibrant culture and climate of Chicagoland; and

WHEREAS, the diverse LGBT community continues to contribute to widespread academic, economic, artistic and social spheres within and around our greater community; and

WHEREAS, the month of June was designated Pride Month to commemorate the Stonewall Riots which occurred in June of 1969 and are generally recognized at the catalyst of the LGBT rights movement; and

WHEREAS, the LGBT communities of Chicago have thoughtfully organized numerous workshops, sporting events, receptions, festivals, concerts, plays, dances and a host of other inspired activities to participate in during the celebration of Pride Month; and

WHEREAS, one of the most historic and highly anticipated events - the 48th Annual Pride Parade - will take place on Sunday, June 25, 2017 bringing together an estimated 850,000 people; and

WHEREAS, the City of Chicago remains committed to protecting the civil rights of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender communities as the power and purpose of this iconic event proves vital in our unified effort forge a more open and just society; and

WHEREAS, Chicago's active and involved Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender communities make an indelible impact upon the quality of life in Chicago, and Pride Month serves as a call to our collective consciousness to persist in the fight to eradicate prejudice and discrimination everywhere:

NOW, THEREFORE, I, RAHM EMANUEL, MAYOR OF THE CITY OF CHICAGO, do hereby proclaim June 2017 to be PRIDE MONTH IN CHICAGO and encourage all Chicagoans to recognize the enduring efforts and ongoing contributions of the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender communities within our city and to our country.

The proclamation was signed May 11, 2017.

The Pride Proclamation was established by former Mayor Richard M. Daley.

Throughout June, Chicago - like cities across the country - will observe Pride Month with parades, parties, street festivals, memorials and more. Chicago's annual Pride Fest takes place on June 17-18, one weekend before the annual 48th annual Chicago Pride Parade on Sunday, June 25. 

Chicago Pride Month Calendar

Related: 'OITNB' star Lea DeLaria to lead 2017 Chicago Pride Parade