Pride In Park Ridge: Celebrating Diversity And Community

Hundreds gathered for the third annual Pride in the Park Community Celebration in Park Ridge, held at Hodges Park from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. on June 5. The event was a community-led LGBTQ+ celebration involving local congregations, organizations, and volunteers.

The celebration featured a keynote speaker central to Illinois’s LGBTQ+ rights movement. Attendees enjoyed food trucks, children’s activities, drag performances, and local vendors. Information booths were also present, serving the LGBTQIA+ community.

Members of the Kiki Queens Chicago drag cabaret troupe performed live, donating all proceeds to LGBTQ+ community organizations. Kiki Queens have raised more than $200,000 for local nonprofits. DJ Gloria provided additional music during the event.

“The presence and contributions of gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, and queer folks in Park Ridge and these northwest suburbs is phenomenal– having a local celebration allows us to celebrate the beauty of living authentically and declare proudly and publicly that LGBTQ folks are vital to our community.” – Rev. Carol Hill, Senior Minister of Park Ridge Community Church

Residents like Kat Labbe expressed a welcoming vibe at the event, emphasizing the importance of celebrating Pride in a safe and joyful space.

The celebration began in 2024, initiated by local churches responding to young people’s requests for public support for queer identities. It has grown significantly since its inception.

Park Ridge Mayor Marty Maloney read a proclamation recognizing June as Pride Month in Park Ridge. His remarks highlighted the importance of Pride Month for recognizing LGBTQ individuals’ contributions and promoting compassion, fairness, and respect.

“Thank you for allowing us to look forward to a future filled with the possibility of love and acceptance rather than one based on fear,” Rae Hill, preparing to begin high school, addressed the crowd.

Keynote speaker Channyn Lynne Parker, CEO of Equality Illinois, spoke at the event. A nationally recognized human rights advocate, Parker emphasized inclusivity and the desire for love and recognition shared by all people.

Rev. Hill acknowledged the community support, highlighting participation by local restaurants and food vendors. Organizations such as Action Ridge and the Chicago Coalition of Welcoming Churches were involved, alongside local businesses.

Advocate Health sponsored the event at a platinum level, while several local churches, restaurants, and businesses supported at gold level, demonstrating widespread community involvement.

Local queer author Ron Stempkowski signed copies of his book, with proceeds going to benefit the Transformative Justice Law Project of Illinois, offering legal services to transgender people.

“Eyes and hearts were opened on Friday; love and support was realized; that’s powerful, that’s the goal,” Hill commented on the energy and support present at the event.

The event organizers emphasized the growing energy, support, and community involvement, building an environment of love and respect for diverse identities.