You won’t see Pride flags flying at village hall in Arlington Heights but there are dozens around town on businesses.
A non-profit supporting the LGBTQ community called Glen’s Friends was among those asking the village to fly the flag during Pride Month.
Founder and President Janet McCarthy says they went to plan B after a narrow loss with the village board last year.
Since then, she says they have gotten 50 businesses to take the inclusion pledge and post small window clings that say Heights Pride below a rainbow-colored infinity symbol.
The sticker greets customers as they walk into CoCo and Blu.
Cafe Owner Michael Brown told us “it’s pretty widespread throughout Arlington Heights that this is a safe, welcoming community for everyone.”
Glen’s Friends has also sold 200 yard signs… with the money going to youth groups and other programs.
McCarthy is celebrating other victories.
The owner of a business across the street from Village Hall allowed her to post a large Pride flag on the side of its building and there will be a pride concert in North School Park.
Nancy Harty
The village, public library and park district are working together on the June 17th concert.
The village has also issued a proclamation for Pride Month that “highlights the value and dignity of each person, regardless of sexual orientation, gender identity or expression”.
