CHICAGO, IL (WBBM Newsradio) - As thousands brave the heat, many wearing rainbow umbrella hats or carrying hand-held fans, many also wearing sunscreen and very little clothing, Lakeview resident Mitchell tells WBBM Newsradio that he’s been most looking forward to the sense of community the Chicago Pride Fest offers; and just being part of the crowd.
“I think it is positive for our community, I think it’s positive for the neighborhood, I think it’s great for the local economy…it’s a thing that has no downsides whatsoever.”, said Mitchell.
Chicago Pride Fest 2025 takes place along North Halsted between Addison St. and Grace, with drag shows, live music performances, and a proud pet parade, along with dozens of food vendors, merchants, artists, and local non-profit organizations.
“It’s a party, but like, it’s also just like really healing and protective of our well-being.”, says Edgewater resident Matt, who adds that he’s, “excited about making out with some dads.”
At the multiple entrances bags are checked, in line with increased security protocols which include Chicago Pride Fest ambassadors in turquois shirts, posted every few feet along North Halsted, available for anyone to report suspicious activity and otherwise keeping a close eye on things.
Support for teens within the LGBTQ+ community is a major focus this year, with the Center on Halsted operating a ‘Teen Pride Space’ within the popular neighborhood festival.
Youth development program manager Hannah Rapp says that it’s a safe space for teens, especially trans teens, who she says often avoid social media or even drinking water at school to avoid using the restroom, with a constant fear of being bullied at school.
“It’s really powerful,” says Rapp, “we’ve had youth who’ve shared with us that they’ve never met, for instance, a trans adult. Seeing that reflection is really important but also getting to connect with one another. A lot of times, especially being an out member of the LGBTQ+ community in schools can be a little bit isolating.”
Rapp adds that now, more than ever, it’s important to create a safe space for young teens within the LGBTQ+ community.
“It always has been, but I think right now they’re seeing attacks that are specifically targeting them. A lot of the rhetoric we’re hearing has to do with health care for trans minors.”, said Rapp, “While I think our community as a whole is under attack right now, I think teens and especially trans teenagers are feeling it hardest, because a lot of what they’re hearing is specifically about them.”
Rapp also says that the existing environment, both social and political, has led to a number of mental health challenges and even suicide amongst LGBTQ+ youth.
