White Sox host first LGBTQ night with pre-game parade and pride-themed giveaways

Chicago, IL - The Chicago White Sox will hold their first LGBTQ Pride Night on August 31, which includes a pregame parade, giveaways and fireworks. A portion of the ticket sales will benefit the You Can Play Project, an organization that is dedicated to building respect and equality in all sports.

"We always strive to create a baseball experience that is welcoming and safe for everyone," the White Sox organization told ChicagoPride.com. "As we reflect on our experiences, we engaged in some meaningful conversations with local LGBTQ organizations to talk about ways to connect with the community and this was one idea that we really wanted to pursue."

"We have been longstanding supporters of LGBTQ organizations, such as Equality Illinois. Through our White Sox Charities work, we have provided support to partners, like Center on Halsted, and we're looking forward to continue building upon those relationships."

"With our commitment to the 'BasebALL: One Game for All' efforts (whitesox.com/inclusion) and our overall commitment to our fans, we want to be where our fans are in the community. The BasebALL campaign focuses on creating a fan experience consistent with the spirit of the game and celebrates the culture and individuality that makes us unique. Pride Night is just one of several ways that we hope to achieve that mission," the organization added.

White Sox baseball has a history of driving positive social change, from serving as the home of the Negro Leagues' East-West All-Star Game at Comiskey Park to employing one of the first female scouts in the majors. 

For Pride Night, the team is partnering with the You Can Play project and a portion of the tickets sold for the event will benefit You Can Play.

As part of their mission, You Can Play also works with local LGBTQ athletes, coaches and fans. "You Can Play has a Chicago regional board comprised of volunteers who are passionate about spreading the message of inclusion and respect in sport," Chris Mosier, spokesperson for You Can Play, told ChicagoPride.com. "We have provided trainings and workshops in the area, youth events at Center on Halsted, and support for recreational leagues, as well as support for Pride games with the Blackhawks, Red Stars, Cubs, and more."

Fans who purchase specially priced tickets for the Friday evening August 31st event at Guaranteed Rate Field on August 31 will be part of a fun and historic evening as the White Sox take on the Boston Red Sox. Tickets purchased through the MLB site whitesox.com/pride for the game, which begins at 7:10pm, include the the rainbow-colored sunglasses, the pregame parade, which starts at 6:15pm, and fireworks. 

During the game, fans can also stop by the Revolution Brewing #SoxSocial Tap Room to check in and receive a Sox Pride flag. 

Related: Purchase specially priced tix ($22) to the White Sox Pride Night on Friday, August 31st.