Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the City’s second annual Pride Fest has been canceled. The City will instead celebrate Pride Month (June) virtually this year.
On June 8, Mayor Stephen Hagerty will read a proclamation during the City Council meeting, proclaiming June 2020 as “Pride Month” in the City of Evanston, encouraging all residents to recognize the enduring efforts and ongoing contributions of the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Queer communities. The City will also raise a rainbow flag outside of the Morton Civic Center in honor of Pride Month, showing its commitment to diversity and inclusion in Evanston.
Residents are encouraged to participate in weekly activities and to check out the City’s weekly e-newsletter every Thursday to learn about LGBTQIA history and resources.
Week 1: The City will share the history behind Pride month and the Pride flag. Residents are encouraged to create their own Pride flag to hang in their windows at home or to fly a flag outside in their yard. Pictures can be sent to communications@cityofevanston.org in order to be included in a photo gallery on the City’s Facebook page.
Week 2: Residents are encouraged to obtain a digital library card and to take advantage of all of the LGBTQIA resources at the Evanston Public Library.
Week 3: The City will highlight LGBTQIA-focused media, including movies, TV shows, musical artists and more, which residents are encouraged to watch or listen to.
Week 4: The City will share a list of LGBTQIA organizations. Residents are encouraged to learn more about how these organizations help our community and support them if able.
Additionally, the City will highlight featured Evanstonians in June who have made a positive contribution to the LGBTQIA community in Evanston.
As the City works to build its LGBTQIA resources webpage, residents and organizations are called to submit resource suggestions to be added by emailing communications@cityofevanston.org.