Windy City Times

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🌈 The voice of Chicago's LGBTQ+ community since 1985. 📧 Sign up for our newsletters: https://windycitytimes.com/newsletters/

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Chicago trans advocates question justice after acquittal in Dejanay Stanton killing The acquittal of a man charged in the 2018 killing of Dejanay Stanton has renewed calls for accountability and greater protections for Chicago’s Black transgender community....

windycitytimes.comChicago trans advocates question justice after acquittal in Dejanay Stanton killingThe acquittal of a man charged in the 2018 killing of Dejanay Stanton has renewed calls for accountability and greater protections for Chicago’s Black transgender community. A Cook County jury on Oct. 23 found Tremon Hill, 25, not guilty of first-degree murder in the death of Stanton, a 24-year-old Black transgender woman who was fatally shot in Chicago’s Bronzeville neighborhood on Aug.
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ALMA event honors Chicago’s LGBTQ+ Latino leaders On the evening of Oct. 22, the Association of Latinos/as/xs Motivating Action (ALMA) held its 5th Annual Community Reception at Barcocina Lakeview, at 2901 N....

windycitytimes.comALMA event honors Chicago’s LGBTQ+ Latino leadersOn the evening of Oct. 22, the Association of Latinos/as/xs Motivating Action (ALMA) held its 5th Annual Community Reception at Barcocina Lakeview, at 2901 N. Sheffield Ave. A packed room of supporters, activists, and current and former ALMA board members were treated to an extended cocktail reception, award presentations and a drag performance featuring artist Angelise K LaRue. This year's awardees of the ALMA de Lider Award included Jessica Carrillo-Guerrero and Dan Ingram.
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IN BRIEF Pride flag demonstrators, Jason Lee removed, blood donation in Iceland, Iris Prize, Them’s Person of the Year, Colman Domingo, Bette Midler NATIONAL In California, hundreds of demonstrators protested the Sonoma Valley Unified School District’s new policy that has forced the removal of the…

windycitytimes.comIN BRIEF Pride flag demonstrators, Jason Lee removed, blood donation in Iceland, Iris Prize, Them’s Person of the Year, Colman Domingo, Bette MidlerNATIONAL In California, hundreds of demonstrators protested the Sonoma Valley Unified School District’s new policy that has forced the removal of the pride flag first raised on the school’s campus by students in 2019, The Sonoma Index-Tribune reported. “We have to make sure that flag stays up. … So it’s a reminder that you can’t erase history,” said Sonoma Valley High junior Andy Amezquita, who, like dozens of other students, walked out of classes to join the protest.
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SAVOR Fast Foodie Facts, Pizzeria Gabbo opens and a ‘Practical Magic’ screening  ”Wonder”-ful: The magic destination The Hand & The Eye will have a weeklong set of special activities…...

windycitytimes.comSAVOR Fast Foodie Facts, Pizzeria Gabbo opens and a ‘Practical Magic’ screening ”Wonder”-ful: The magic destination The Hand & The Eye will have a weeklong set of special activities on Oct. 27-31, culminating in The Midway of Wonders on the Halloween centennial of Harry Houdini’s death. On Oct. 27-29, The Grand Exhibition will include a one-hour, limited-seating performance in the Monarch Theater, with the mansion’s first floor and bars open before and after.
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THEATER ‘A Strange Loop’ wows in About Face Theatre and Raven Theatre’s Chicago premiere There is a lot going on in the mind of Usher, the simultaneously insecure and ambitious leading man at the center of ...

windycitytimes.comTHEATER ‘A Strange Loop’ wows in About Face Theatre and Raven Theatre’s Chicago premiereThere is a lot going on in the mind of Usher, the simultaneously insecure and ambitious leading man at the center of A Strange Loop. This unabashed and self-described “big, Black and queer ass” Broadway musical is making a fabulous Chicago premiere via a strong co-production by About Face Theatre and Raven Theatre through Nov. 22. A Strange Loop has the distinction of winning both the 2022 Tony Award for Best Musical and the 2020 Pulitzer Prize for Drama based upon its 2019 off-Broadway debut at Playwrights Horizons in New York.
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Yasemin Smallens is Human Rights Watch’s eyewitness to the harms of anti-trans laws Yasemin Smallens has been an eyewitness to the ill effects of anti-transgender laws—and wants to raise public awareness about them....

windycitytimes.comYasemin Smallens is Human Rights Watch’s eyewitness to the harms of anti-trans lawsYasemin Smallens has been an eyewitness to the ill effects of anti-transgender laws—and wants to raise public awareness about them. Chicago-based Smallens, acting researcher in the LGBT Rights Program at Human Rights Watch, has traveled to a variety of places, including Texas and Botswana, to observe the harms of these laws. “The impact is far greater than the news is reporting,” said Smallens, who is nonbinary and uses all pronouns.
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OPINION What’s that word again for aiding and giving comfort to the enemy? Sabrina Haake Trump waived sanctions against Russia just two days before they were set to go into effect ...

windycitytimes.comOPINION What’s that word again for aiding and giving comfort to the enemy?Sabrina Haake Trump waived sanctions against Russia just two days before they were set to go into effect under federal law. Braying that the US had done “a lot” for Ukraine while Ukraine had done nothing for the US—holding NATO’s nemesis at bay with no real help since 2024 is apparently “doing nothing”—Trump’s waiver came right after he announced another gift to Russia: that the US will now buy Russian diesel, effectuating a 180 degree 
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ART Pilsen photographer and 3Arts Award winner Diana Solis puts queer, Latinx identities in focus  If a person could embody Chicago’s Pilsen neighborhood, queer photographer Diana Solis (she/they) just might be that individual....

windycitytimes.comART Pilsen photographer and 3Arts Award winner Diana Solis puts queer, Latinx identities in focus If a person could embody Chicago’s Pilsen neighborhood, queer photographer Diana Solis (she/they) just might be that individual. In fact, their Instagram handle is @pilsenita. However, Solis’ life spans two countries. Solis is a photographer, multidisciplinary artist and educator who is rooted in Mexican and Chicano culture. As a documentary photographer, Solís has an archive of LGBTQ+, Latinx and feminist communities and movements from Chicago to Mexico City.
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Art by LGBTQ+ migrants in ICE detention to be showcased at Chicago exhibition Artwork created by LGBTQ+ immigrants in ICE detention will be featured at a Chicago exhibition Saturday, Oct....

windycitytimes.comArt by LGBTQ+ migrants in ICE detention to be showcased at Chicago exhibitionArtwork created by LGBTQ+ immigrants in ICE detention will be featured at a Chicago exhibition Saturday, Oct. 24. The free event, "Stories in Action," is organized by Chicago-based Migrant Support Collective (MSC) and will take place at Center on Halsted, 3656 N. Halsted St. It will feature artwork from an anticipated 20-25 artists experiencing detention, along with a panel discussion and opportunities to connect with local advocacy organizations.
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Chicago mayor’s office previews 5-year LGBTQ+ policy plan The proposal includes strategies addressing LGBTQ+ youth homelessness, gender-affirming healthcare and mental health services, but the city has… https://windycitytimes.com/2026/10/19/chicago-mayors-office-previews-5-year-lgbtq-policy-plan/

windycitytimes.comChicago mayor’s office previews 5-year LGBTQ+ policy planThe proposal includes strategies addressing LGBTQ+ youth homelessness, gender-affirming healthcare and mental health services, but the city has not yet presented an implementation budget or timeline.
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IN BRIEF Transgender Arizonans, community centers, Spirit Day, Irish plan, homeless in Lebanon, Nikki Hiltz film, top queer horror films, new Barbies Warning: This column mentions violent activities and sexual abuse. NATIONAL The San Francisco-based U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit…

windycitytimes.comIN BRIEF Transgender Arizonans, community centers, Spirit Day, Irish plan, homeless in Lebanon, Nikki Hiltz film, top queer horror films, new BarbiesWarning: This column mentions violent activities and sexual abuse. NATIONAL The San Francisco-based U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit ruled that transgender Arizona residents can amend their birth certificates without surgery, Gay City News noted. The court found that the Arizona statute made clear that such changes can be obtained without getting a “sex-change operation,” and that Senior U.S.
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SAVOR Queer chef honored, Chick-fil-A stays mum, Mango Pickle’s high tea—and a vintage show Marvel-ous: Following the success of Meals to Astonish: Spider-Man #1, chef/restaurateur/humanitarian/educator José Andrés and his team at World Central Kitchen continue their journey through the Marvel…

windycitytimes.comSAVOR Queer chef honored, Chick-fil-A stays mum, Mango Pickle’s high tea—and a vintage showMarvel-ous: Following the success of Meals to Astonish: Spider-Man #1, chef/restaurateur/humanitarian/educator José Andrés and his team at World Central Kitchen continue their journey through the Marvel Universe in Meals To Astonish: Avengers #1, which arrived this month. The Meals to Astonish items team Andrés with Marvel’s greatest heroes for adventures that celebrate World Central Kitchen’s mission to provide food and nourishment to communities in crisis around the world.
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Murray Hill reflects on ‘Showbiz’ memoir ahead of Chicago appearance For three decades, Murray Hill has captivated audiences around the world as a successful entertainer and actor....

windycitytimes.comMurray Hill reflects on ‘Showbiz’ memoir ahead of Chicago appearanceFor three decades, Murray Hill has captivated audiences around the world as a successful entertainer and actor. Sometimes referred to as “Mr. Showbiz,” this award-winning trans comedian—and now author— blends camp with a cabaret-style live act that fans can see in person at The Den Theatre, 1331 N. Milwaukee Ave., on Sunday, Nov. 1.  The Chicago appearance is a return to the Midwest for Hill, after starring as Fred Rococo in the queer-centered HBO TV show 
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Community leaders honored at TaskForce Vogue For Good event The Black, Latiné and LGBTQ+-led nonprofit TaskForce Prevention and Community Services (TaskForce) held its second annual…...

windycitytimes.comCommunity leaders honored at TaskForce Vogue For Good eventThe Black, LatinĂŠ and LGBTQ+-led nonprofit TaskForce Prevention and Community Services (TaskForce) held its second annual Vogue For Good event honoring the creativity, resilience and legacy of Ballroom culture and LGBTQ+ community leadership Oct. 15 at City Hall in Chicago’s West Loop neighborhood. For the second year in a row, TaskForce honored community leaders with its now annual Legacy Awards. At last year’s event, TaskForce Executive Director Chris Balthazar said these awards would henceforth be named after…
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PASSAGES Michael Siverling Michael Glen Siverling passed away Oct. 4 at his home in Chicago. Michael was born Oct. 6, 1964 in Salina, Kansas, to Donald and Marietta (Reed) Siverling....

windycitytimes.comPASSAGES Michael SiverlingMichael Glen Siverling passed away Oct. 4 at his home in Chicago. Michael was born Oct. 6, 1964 in Salina, Kansas, to Donald and Marietta (Reed) Siverling. He attended Central High School, graduating in 1983. He attended Kansas Technical Institute and Colorado Institute of Art, earning a degree in Visual Communications in 1989. Siverling Michael enjoyed his profession and worked for several marketing companies, including Marketaide, Inc., in Salina.
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Open Space Arts to present Before We Are History Three-week theatrical event revisits groundbreaking works from the early AIDS crisis while placing them in conversation with LGBTQ+ life today....

windycitytimes.comOpen Space Arts to present Before We Are HistoryThree-week theatrical event revisits groundbreaking works from the early AIDS crisis while placing them in conversation with LGBTQ+ life today.CHICAGO — Open Space Arts presents BEFORE WE ARE HISTORY, a three-week theatrical exploration of LGBTQ+ theater created during and in response to the AIDS crisis, running October 23 through November 8, 2026, at Open Space Arts, 1411 W.
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TRAVEL Pride in Dallas was a weekend of unabashed joy for Texas’ queer community Courtesy of the Los Angeles Blade Pride arrived for a second time this year in Dallas, Texas, with the local community coming together for a few more days to uplift their LGBTQ+ neighbors. ...

windycitytimes.comTRAVEL Pride in Dallas was a weekend of unabashed joy for Texas’ queer communityCourtesy of the Los Angeles Blade Pride arrived for a second time this year in Dallas, Texas, with the local community coming together for a few more days to uplift their LGBTQ+ neighbors.  It was a weekend of fun inclusivity that this city is no stranger to; Dallas currently boasts the sixth-largest population of LGBTQ+ individuals in the U.S. While Texas at large has dealt with many discriminatory attacks, this city hasn’t faltered in showing off its unabashed pride.
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How LGBTQ+ Chicagoans can join Q Force to help sway battleground-state elections LGBTQ+ Chicagoans are heading to neighboring battleground states to mobilize voters and help Democrats win in competitive races in the Nov....

windycitytimes.comHow LGBTQ+ Chicagoans can join Q Force to help sway battleground-state electionsLGBTQ+ Chicagoans are heading to neighboring battleground states to mobilize voters and help Democrats win in competitive races in the Nov. 3 midterm elections. Q Force, a local grassroots organizing group, is ramping up its canvassing efforts in Michigan, Wisconsin and Iowa as Election Day approaches, recruiting volunteers for weekend trips to support Democratic candidates in closely contested races.
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ALMA Chicago to honor two community leaders at 5th annual reception ALMA Chicago will recognize Dan Ingram and Jessica Carillo-Guerrero with its 2026 ALMA del Líder Awards during the organization’s fifth annual Community Reception....

windycitytimes.comALMA Chicago to honor two community leaders at 5th annual receptionALMA Chicago will recognize Dan Ingram and Jessica Carillo-Guerrero with its 2026 ALMA del LĂ­der Awards during the organization’s fifth annual Community Reception. The reception, scheduled for 6-9 p.m. Oct. 22 at Barcocina Lakeview, 2901 N. Sheffield Ave., will feature food, drinks, a live drag performance and recognition of community leaders. The event also celebrates 37 years of ALMA Chicago…
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OPINION Trump tries walking back treasonous comments about San Diego and LA Sabrina Haake On Oct. 5, during a Republican campaign rally in Grand Island, Nebraska, Trump minimized rising prices as a consequence of his war in Iran as a ‘small price to pay’ for long-term security.  ...

windycitytimes.comOPINION Trump tries walking back treasonous comments about San Diego and LASabrina Haake On Oct. 5, during a Republican campaign rally in Grand Island, Nebraska, Trump minimized rising prices as a consequence of his war in Iran as a ‘small price to pay’ for long-term security.  Another small price to pay, as he put it, would be the State of California. Discussing Iran, Trump declared: “They can take out a city. 
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Legacy Walk marks Cannon and Pulaski’s contributions to history On the unseasonably warm and sunny afternoon of Oct. 10, Open Hand/Chicago Co-Founder, LGBTQ+ and HIV/AIDS ally/activist and…... https://windycitytimes.com/2026/10/13/legacy-walk-marks-cannon-and-pulaskis-contributions-to-history/

windycitytimes.comLegacy Walk marks Cannon and Pulaski’s contributions to historyOn the unseasonably warm and sunny afternoon of Oct. 10, Open Hand/Chicago Co-Founder, LGBTQ+ and HIV/AIDS ally/activist and Legacy Project Co-Founder Lori F. Cannon and U.S. Revolutionary War Brigadier General, Father of the American Calvary and hero Casimir Pulaski were inducted into the Legacy Walk in Chicago’s Northalsted neighborhood.
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Public health activist Julio Flores on supporting Chicago’s LGBTQ+ youth Julio Flores didn't have a traditional educational path into public health. He went straight from high school into volunteer and full-time work....

windycitytimes.comPublic health activist Julio Flores on supporting Chicago’s LGBTQ+ youthJulio Flores didn't have a traditional educational path into public health. He went straight from high school into volunteer and full-time work. Nevertheless, in recent years, he has becoming a formidable force for queer advocacy in Chicago. Now, he's in his fourth year as program director for Alliance, the branch of the Public Health Institute of Metropolitan Chicago supporting LGBTQ+ youth.
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IN BRIEF Kansas challenge, AIDS Healthcare Foundation, Elliot Page, queer Taipei bar raided, Pet Shop Boys, ‘Heated Rivalry,’ Robin Roberts Warning: This column mentions violent activities. NATIONAL While transgender and intersex Kansas residents challenge the state’s driver’s license and restroom…

windycitytimes.comIN BRIEF Kansas challenge, AIDS Healthcare Foundation, Elliot Page, queer Taipei bar raided, Pet Shop Boys, ‘Heated Rivalry,’ Robin RobertsWarning: This column mentions violent activities. NATIONAL While transgender and intersex Kansas residents challenge the state’s driver’s license and restroom restrictions, Republican Attorney General Kris Kobach contended that the plaintiffs have not shown the law harmed them, The Advocate reported. And to challenge their claims that the law could basically reveal them as trans or intersex, state attorneys have used the plaintiffs’ own social-media posts—some of them years old—to argue that public disclosures undermine their expectation of privacy.
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SAVOR Starbucks’ holiday menu, The Secret Kitchen celebrates Navratri and ‘Gong Show Karaoke Night’ Harlem night: Marking a rare return to Chicago and The Auditorium, Dance Theatre of Harlem…...

windycitytimes.comSAVOR Starbucks’ holiday menu, The Secret Kitchen celebrates Navratri and ‘Gong Show Karaoke Night’Harlem night: Marking a rare return to Chicago and The Auditorium, Dance Theatre of Harlem will make its first engagement in the city since November 2016 when it performs Oct. 17 at 7:30 p.m. at the venue. The company’s return to The Auditorium will include the legendary Firebird, a reimagining of the Russian folk tale of love’s triumph over evil set in a lush Caribbean world.
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FILM Queer Fright: Filmmaker Zach Lorkiewicz brings “psychosis incarnate” feature debut to Chicago After graduating from Columbia College, gay filmmaker Zach Lorkiewicz headed for Los Angeles. While he has found a successful creative home there, his ties to the Midwest remain strong....

windycitytimes.comFILM Queer Fright: Filmmaker Zach Lorkiewicz brings “psychosis incarnate” feature debut to ChicagoAfter graduating from Columbia College, gay filmmaker Zach Lorkiewicz headed for Los Angeles. While he has found a successful creative home there, his ties to the Midwest remain strong. “The Night Jane Went Insane,” his colorful seven-minute grand dame freak-out, had its local premiere in 2023. Now his feature film debut, a horror film entitled It Lives in the Screen…
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First circuit argues over NEA funding “gender ideology” A three-judge panel of the federal appeals court in Boston heard arguments Wednesday morning (October 7) in a lawsuit which challenges whether President Trump’s executive order saying “Federal funds shall not be used to promote gender…

windycitytimes.comFirst circuit argues over NEA funding “gender ideology”A three-judge panel of the federal appeals court in Boston heard arguments Wednesday morning (October 7) in a lawsuit which challenges whether President Trump’s executive order saying “Federal funds shall not be used to promote gender ideology” can be applied to arts funding.                 Four theatre groups, including two which are LGBTQ-focused, filed a lawsuit last year, arguing that Executive Order 14168 violates their First Amendment right to freedom of expression.
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Fall Fashion Show offers trans and non-binary Chicagoans a chance at expression On Oct. 2, FashionBar LLC presented its 9th Annual Fall Trans Media Fashion Show at Water Tower Place, 875 N....

windycitytimes.comFall Fashion Show offers trans and non-binary Chicagoans a chance at expressionOn Oct. 2, FashionBar LLC presented its 9th Annual Fall Trans Media Fashion Show at Water Tower Place, 875 N. Michigan Ave. The presentation was the second of the year and featured clothing and designs from IAMTONYLONG, Out of the Closet, Haley from the Third Period and Brown Elephant and served as a fundraiser for Vernita Gray Council for Philanthropy…
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Purple Tie Affair turns 12 with Otis Mack tribute and raucous good time Otis Mack's Build Your Own Table Award Photo by Vern HesterC On Oct. 3, E3 Radio presented the 12th annual Purple… https://windycitytimes.com/2026/10/07/purple-tie-affair-turns-12-with-otis-mack-tribute-and-raucous-good-time/

windycitytimes.comPurple Tie Affair turns 12 with Otis Mack tribute and raucous good timeOtis Mack's Build Your Own Table Award Photo by Vern HesterC On Oct. 3, E3 Radio presented the 12th annual Purple Tie Affair at Sidetrack, 3349 N. Halsted St. The nearly sold-out event aimed to both raise $10,000 and celebrate Chicago producer/entrepreneur/activist/educator Otis Mack for his contributions to the LGBTQ+ community. The event featured a concert with raw and rowdy sets from vocalists Frenchie Davis and Kenyotta and her band Kemistry; catering from Taylor's Tacos; a candy bar provided by Ferrara Candies; a silent auction and raffle; and an appearance from Mayor Brandon Johnson.
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Chicago celebrates artist/activist Chili Pepper at street sign unveiling The late legendary performance artist and LGBTQ+ and HIV/AIDS activist Chili Pepper was celebrated with an "Honorary Chilli Pepper Way" street sign by the City of Chicago on the sunny Fall morning of Oct....

windycitytimes.comChicago celebrates artist/activist Chili Pepper at street sign unveilingThe late legendary performance artist and LGBTQ+ and HIV/AIDS activist Chili Pepper was celebrated with an "Honorary Chilli Pepper Way" street sign by the City of Chicago on the sunny Fall morning of Oct. 3 (the day after Chili’s birthday) at the corner of North State and East Cedar Streets in Chicago’s Gold Coast neighborhood.
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SAVOR The Carlyle Club opens, Chicago Marathon specials start and Eden celebrates Lebanese flavors In fashion: Chicago Fashion WeekŽ will hold events and activations for its third edition, taking place Oct....

windycitytimes.comSAVOR The Carlyle Club opens, Chicago Marathon specials start and Eden celebrates Lebanese flavorsIn fashion: Chicago Fashion Week® will hold events and activations for its third edition, taking place Oct. 8–18. The calendar includes more than 80 events and activations in partnership with local fashion organizations, retailers and fashion designers. Just a few of the events include a vintage pop-up (Oct. 10-11, 12-6 p.m.) at Design at 329, 329 W. 18th St.; “; The Fashion Summit 2026 with Keynote Speaker Elie Tahari (Oct.
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OPINION Blaming God for corporate malfeasance Sabrina Haake On Monday, the Supreme Court will hear oral arguments on a climate case that could make or break efforts to stop rising temperatures before they reach the point of no return....

windycitytimes.comOPINION Blaming God for corporate malfeasanceSabrina Haake On Monday, the Supreme Court will hear oral arguments on a climate case that could make or break efforts to stop rising temperatures before they reach the point of no return. Our planet is hotter than it has ever been, at any time, in the entire history of modern civilization. The six warmest years on record have all been 
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FELIX Modern American Dining When it comes to spaces with history, FELIX Modern American Dining is certainly in one. The Lake View restaurant is at 3301 N....

windycitytimes.comFELIX Modern American DiningWhen it comes to spaces with history, FELIX Modern American Dining is certainly in one. The Lake View restaurant is at 3301 N. Clark St., which has been the home of Socca, Hutch and the legendary Buddies (the latter which partnered with LGBTQ+ and HIV/AIDS organizations). Now, co-owners Derek Intapura and Asana Nakornchai (who also have the nearby Bites Asian Kitchen + Bar) have taken the space and put their own mid-American spin (in terms of decor) on it.
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IN BRIEF Anti-trans Democrat, Renee Good, Mamdani and Jetten meet, Australia’s act, Indian film ‘Dorothy,’ ‘Rocky Horror’ bobbleheads, theater companies Warning: This column mentions violent activities. NATIONAL The U.S. Education Department formally revoked the Biden-era Title IX guidelines that…

windycitytimes.comIN BRIEF Anti-trans Democrat, Renee Good, Mamdani and Jetten meet, Australia’s act, Indian film ‘Dorothy,’ ‘Rocky Horror’ bobbleheads, theater companiesWarning: This column mentions violent activities. NATIONAL The U.S. Education Department formally revoked the Biden-era Title IX guidelines that gave sex-based discrimination protections to LGBTQ+ students, The Hill reported. Schools now must revert to the Title IX code as held under the previous Trump administration in 2020, which the department claimed will protect women’s sports. National Women’s Law Center Senior Director of Education Justice Shiwali Patel objected, saying, “Education Secretary Linda McMahon and the Trump administration have decided to ignore what survivors need, instead weaponizing Title IX to attack trans students.” …
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BOOKS ‘Ways and Means’ probes the heart of American capitalism’s darkness Nick Patricca Alistair McCabe, the protagonist of Daniel Lefferts’ debut novel Ways and Means, is gay, smart, ambitious, handsome and a finance student at NYU’s Stern School of Business....

windycitytimes.comBOOKS ‘Ways and Means’ probes the heart of American capitalism’s darknessNick Patricca Alistair McCabe, the protagonist of Daniel Lefferts’ debut novel Ways and Means, is gay, smart, ambitious, handsome and a finance student at NYU’s Stern School of Business. He comes from a lower-working-class background in a depressed corner of upstate New York.  Alistair, burdened by huge student debt, becomes entangled in a high-risk financial scheme that involves him in a complex erotic dynamic with an older gay couple, Mark and Elijah; a Bulgarian entrepreneur, Nikolai; Jay, an “artist”; and Herve, a mysterious and dangerous billionaire.
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THEATER Lookingglass Theatre tells a tall tale of Tennessee in ‘Kowalski’ “I don’t want realism. I want magic!” Blanche DuBois says in the 1947 play A Streetcar Named Desire…...

windycitytimes.comTHEATER Lookingglass Theatre tells a tall tale of Tennessee in ‘Kowalski’“I don’t want realism. I want magic!” Blanche DuBois says in the 1947 play A Streetcar Named Desire. A new Lookingglass Theatre Company production, titled after that play’s main character, Stanley Kowalski, is a magical fantasy Blanche would surely appreciate. Kowalski is a fictional story where Marlon Brando visits Tennessee Williams in his Provincetown, Massachusetts, beach house to audition for Williams’ new project.
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LGBTQ+ artists and businesses find community at Andersonville Arts Weekend “Art is my reason for being here,” Chicago artist Nicholas Holman said of his participation in Andersonville Art Weekend, which took place Sept....

windycitytimes.comLGBTQ+ artists and businesses find community at Andersonville Arts Weekend“Art is my reason for being here,” Chicago artist Nicholas Holman said of his participation in Andersonville Art Weekend, which took place Sept. 25-27. “In my work, I’m more in tune with those parts of me that are true and authentic, I do what I want to do and I think that does pertain to my queer identity.” Holman, who was a featured artist at the furniture store 
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MUSIC Riot Fest went boldly where no punk celebration had gone before The legendary three-day punk rock music gathering known as Riot Fest returned to Chicago’s historic Douglass Park, 1401 S....

windycitytimes.comMUSIC Riot Fest went boldly where no punk celebration had gone beforeThe legendary three-day punk rock music gathering known as Riot Fest returned to Chicago’s historic Douglass Park, 1401 S. Sacramento Dr., where it has been held annually since 2015. From Sept. 18-20, the anti-establishment event embraced raw energy on five stages, each beginning with the letter R: Riot, Roots, Rebel, Rise and Radical. Historically, punk culture has radically rejected mainstream rules and this mindset has evolved into a deep connection between the rebels and the queers over the years.
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PRIDEChicago opens public nominations for 2027 community grand marshals Nominations launch October 1 for the 57th Annual Chicago Pride Parade, continuing a tradition of honoring grassroots leaders and local trailblazers....

windycitytimes.comPRIDEChicago opens public nominations for 2027 community grand marshalsNominations launch October 1 for the 57th Annual Chicago Pride Parade, continuing a tradition of honoring grassroots leaders and local trailblazers. PRIDEChicago, the volunteer-powered nonprofit organization behind the historic Chicago Pride Parade, announced today that nominations are officially open for the Community Grand Marshals who will be honored during the 57th annual Chicago Pride Parade on June 27, 2027. Beginning with the 2025 parade, PRIDEChicago launched a public nomination process to honor individuals who embody the spirit of Pride, elevate voices, and expand opportunity for all.
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COMEDY Marsha Warfield talks nostalgia, coming out and ‘It’s Raining Queens’ An evening of music, comedy and storytelling is set to take the stage Oct. 3 at Chicago’s City Winery as legendary vocalist Martha Wash and acclaimed lesbian comedian/actress Marsha Warfield (TV’s ...

windycitytimes.comCOMEDY Marsha Warfield talks nostalgia, coming out and ‘It’s Raining Queens’An evening of music, comedy and storytelling is set to take the stage Oct. 3 at Chicago’s City Winery as legendary vocalist Martha Wash and acclaimed lesbian comedian/actress Marsha Warfield (TV’s Night Court) unite for It’s Raining Queens: Starring Martha Wash and Marsha Warfield. (The event’s name is a play of “It’s Raining Men,” the ‘80s dance hit from the Grammy-nominated duo The Weather Girls, which included Wash and the late Izora Armstead.)
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Barbara Fest starts new queer tradition for Chicago Under a clear blue sky on Sept. 27, Barbara&Barbara Salon presented the inaugural Barbara Fest in a secluded field across from First Presbyterian Church of Chicago at 6400 S....

windycitytimes.comBarbara Fest starts new queer tradition for ChicagoUnder a clear blue sky on Sept. 27, Barbara&Barbara Salon presented the inaugural Barbara Fest in a secluded field across from First Presbyterian Church of Chicago at 6400 S. Kimbark Ave. The event aimed to raise funds for ALMA, Lace and Liberation, and Brave Space Alliance while also celebrating the city’s BIPOC LGBTQ+ Community. The festival also presented a variety of queer venders, local artists, grassroots community service providers, makers and small businesses.
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SAVOR Breast Cancer Awareness specials, Good Ambler, robbery victim’s reflections, Chilli Pepper street-naming Not fAIr: On Thursday, Oct. 1, at 1 p.m., an independent coalition of artists and musicians will rally at Dirksen Federal Plaza, 219 S....

windycitytimes.comSAVOR Breast Cancer Awareness specials, Good Ambler, robbery victim’s reflections, Chilli Pepper street-namingNot fAIr: On Thursday, Oct. 1, at 1 p.m., an independent coalition of artists and musicians will rally at Dirksen Federal Plaza, 219 S. Dearborn St., to highlight the devastating effects of generative AI on the music industry. Many of the artists who will gather to voice their concerns are also members of the SCL (Society of Composers and Lyricists), the Recording Academy (Grammys) and many other music organizations.
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THEATER UrbanTheater Company leader Ivan Vega receives Leaders for a New Chicago award More than two decades after helping launch a theater company to put Puerto Rican stories on Chicago stages, ...

windycitytimes.comTHEATER UrbanTheater Company leader Ivan Vega receives Leaders for a New Chicago awardMore than two decades after helping launch a theater company to put Puerto Rican stories on Chicago stages, UrbanTheater Company (UTC) co-founder and Executive Director Ivan Vega is being recognized for his work building community through the arts. Vega was one of eight people named recipients of the 2026 Leaders for a New Chicago Award, a joint initiative of the…
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Gerber/Hart Library and Archives marks 45 years of service with ‘Sapphire Gayla’

windycitytimes.comGerber/Hart Library and Archives marks 45 years of service with ‘Sapphire Gayla’Erin Bell, left and Roland C. Hansen Photo by Vern Hester James Conley with Ken Nunley right Photo by Vern Hester The Sapphire Gayla: 45 Years of Gerber/Hart was the theme of this year’s Gerber/Hart Library and Archives (Gerber/Hart) celebration Sept. 24 at Rockwell on the River. Emmy Winning NBC-5 Chicago Today executive producer and host, NBC-5 Chicago Matt in the Morning…
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AIDS Run and Walk returns with Resist, Restore and Renew theme Under crisp and sunny blue skies on the morning of Sept. 26, approximately 2,000 participants gathered at Soldier Field for this year’s ...

windycitytimes.comAIDS Run and Walk returns with Resist, Restore and Renew themeUnder crisp and sunny blue skies on the morning of Sept. 26, approximately 2,000 participants gathered at Soldier Field for this year’s Resist, Restore and Renew-themed AIDS Foundation Chicago’s (AFC) AIDS Run and Walk. During the event’s 25-year history, over 36,500 participants have helped raise more than $11 million to eradicate HIV. More than $300,000 has been raised as of this publication with 
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BUSINESS Yvonne Welbon uplifts Black women and gender-expansive creatives with Sisters in Cinema When lifelong Chicagoan and Sisters in Cinema Founder and CEO Yvonne Welbon started her Master of Fine Arts in film and video program at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago in 1991 she knew the…

windycitytimes.comBUSINESS Yvonne Welbon uplifts Black women and gender-expansive creatives with Sisters in CinemaWhen lifelong Chicagoan and Sisters in Cinema Founder and CEO Yvonne Welbon started her Master of Fine Arts in film and video program at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago in 1991 she knew the name of only one African American woman director, Julie Dash. “When I asked one of my professors to help me find others, they said, ‘Maybe you are the second one,’” said Welbon.
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OPINION Illinois new online safety law needs a second look to protect LGBTQ+ youth from unintended harms For over 35 years, TaskForce has served LGBTQ+ youth of Color in Chicago’s West Side. The young people who walk into our building come to find resources and on-site referrals, HIV/STI screening…

windycitytimes.comOPINION Illinois new online safety law needs a second look to protect LGBTQ+ youth from unintended harmsFor over 35 years, TaskForce has served LGBTQ+ youth of Color in Chicago’s West Side. The young people who walk into our building come to find resources and on-site referrals, HIV/STI screening and education, and a safe space for fellowship and community. Oftentimes, members of our staff are the first affirming adults they have interacted with, especially since many arrive from households that refuse to accept who they are.  
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IN BRIEF Dignity USA leader steps down, Club Q lawsuit, GLAAD Media Awards, Ukrainian law, gay men disappear, Ginger Minj, ‘Rock Out,’ ‘Glee’ reboot Warning: This column mentions violent activities. NATIONAL Marianne Duddy-Burke has decided to step down from being executive director of the LGBTQ+…

windycitytimes.comIN BRIEF Dignity USA leader steps down, Club Q lawsuit, GLAAD Media Awards, Ukrainian law, gay men disappear, Ginger Minj, ‘Rock Out,’ ‘Glee’ rebootWarning: This column mentions violent activities. NATIONAL Marianne Duddy-Burke has decided to step down from being executive director of the LGBTQ+ Catholic organization Dignity USA. On Facebook, she stated, in part, “The past few years have brought significant challenges and opportunities, a great deal of travel, and I am ready to make more space for time with my family, do more of the writing and speaking that I love, and take life a little more slowly.
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PASSAGES Scott Bradley Queer Chicago performance artist, director, producer and playwright Scott Bradley died Sept. 8 surrounded by family in Half Moon Bay, California after a brief battle with glioblastoma, an aggressive form of brain cancer....

windycitytimes.comPASSAGES Scott BradleyQueer Chicago performance artist, director, producer and playwright Scott Bradley died Sept. 8 surrounded by family in Half Moon Bay, California after a brief battle with glioblastoma, an aggressive form of brain cancer. He was 60. Bradley was born July 27, 1966, in Des Moines, Iowa and spent his childhood and teen years between there and Colorado. He graduated from the University of Iowa with a Bachelor of General Studies degree with a concentration in performing arts and culture studies.
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POLITICS Christian Mitchell talks about Gov. Pritzker, Ulysses S. Grant and the fight for marriage equality Christian Mitchell—a former Illinois state representative and deputy governor—is on the statewide election ticket alongside Gov. JB Pritzker in a bid for lieutenant governor, as his running…

windycitytimes.comPOLITICS Christian Mitchell talks about Gov. Pritzker, Ulysses S. Grant and the fight for marriage equalityChristian Mitchell—a former Illinois state representative and deputy governor—is on the statewide election ticket alongside Gov. JB Pritzker in a bid for lieutenant governor, as his running mate seeks a third term. (Outgoing Lt. Gov. Juliana Stratton is running for the U.S. Senate.) Mitchell graduated from the University of Chicago in 2008, and planned on attending law school and obtaining a high-paying job.
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SAVOR Honey Pot Performance, LAUREL’s Negroni Week and The Goddess celebrates Dolly Gender(Cool) theory: The GenderCool Gala—featuring the theme “Together We Thrive”—will take place Sept. 24, 5-8 p.m., in Chicago....

windycitytimes.comSAVOR Honey Pot Performance, LAUREL’s Negroni Week and The Goddess celebrates DollyGender(Cool) theory: The GenderCool Gala—featuring the theme “Together We Thrive”—will take place Sept. 24, 5-8 p.m., in Chicago. Organizers promise a magical evening supporting 1) families raising transgender kids and 2) LGBTQ+ workplace inclusion. Early-bird tickets, a VIP reception, and corporate and personal sponsorship opportunities are available here. —”Pleasure” principle: Honey Pot Performance (HPP) invites Chicagoans to the…