Stonewall Uprising
The Stonewall rebellion catalyzed modern LGBTQ+ liberation organizing across the country.
HistoryStonewallChicago Pride
Pride History
It started as a riot - and became a movement.
Learn how Chicago Pride grew from protest roots into one of the city's most visible celebrations of LGBTQ+ life, equality, and community.
It started as a riot
From Stonewall to Chicago's first Pride march.
The original ChicagoPride.com history page connected Chicago Pride to the Stonewall uprising of June 28, 1969, when LGBTQ+ patrons resisted a police raid at the Stonewall Inn in New York. A year later, LGBTQ+ activists in Chicago and other cities marched to mark the anniversary and demand equal treatment.
Those early Pride events were more than celebrations. They were political, cultural, and social statements that LGBTQ+ people were equal in every way and expected to be treated that way.
Pride Timeline
A vivid thread in Chicago's history.
From a modest protest march to one of the country's most visible Pride celebrations, Chicago's parade reflects resilience, visibility, joy, and the continuing fight for equality.
Chicago marches
Chicago's first Pride march took place one year after Stonewall, joining cities nationwide in public protest and visibility.
Richard Pfeiffer era
The longtime coordinator helped grow the parade from a modest march into a major citywide event.
Free to Be Proud
The 55th annual parade continues the legacy with a theme centered on dignity, authenticity, and visibility.