Chicago, a city known for its vibrant diversity, is commemorating a historic milestone as it celebrates the 30th anniversary of LGBTQ+ inclusion in the iconic Bud Billiken Parade. This remarkable achievement will be marked with a special screening of the documentary “Why We Marched: Black LGBTQs & the 1993 Bud Billiken Parade,” followed by a panel discussion and reception. Hosted by Affinity Community Services, this event promises to honor the spirit of unity and inclusion that has been a hallmark of this renowned Chicago tradition.
A Victory for Representation and Inclusion
The Bud Billiken Parade, an annual event organized by the charitable arm of The Chicago Defender, has been a cherished tradition in the city’s Black community since 1929. It serves as a platform for African-Americans to come together in celebration of music, dance, food, and laughter, embodying the historic roots that anchor them in the South Side of Chicago. In 1993, a significant moment of progress occurred when the Ad Hoc Committee of Proud Black Lesbians and Gays applied to participate in the parade. Initially turned down due to purported space constraints, the committee persisted, highlighting discrimination based on sexual orientation. After a public battle, they secured their rightful place in the parade. This victory for representation and inclusion was especially meaningful, as LGBTQ+ groups in Chicago’s Black neighborhoods were scarce, and those in other areas were predominantly white.
Preserving History and Culture
The documentary “Why We Marched,” crafted by Chicago filmmaker Magdiel Carmona, features interviews with several participants from the 1993 parade. Reflecting on this project, Carmona emphasized the importance of preserving such stories: “It’s fortifying because it reminds me that very incredible people cared enough about our community today that they were willing to face some very difficult challenges back then. It’s important to preserve these stories in as many ways as we can because that creates history, and that history creates language, and that language becomes our culture.”
A New Generation Carries the Torch
Affinity, the Black LGBTQ+ social justice group that hosts this celebration, traces its roots directly to the group that marched in 1993. Their Executive Director, Latonya Maley, expressed pride in hosting this long-overdue celebration, acknowledging the transformative impact of the pioneers from three decades ago. The event, which includes a reception, film screening, panel discussion, and Q&A, will feature panelists from the 1993 contingent as well as younger advocates, demonstrating how the Ad Hoc Committee’s actions continue to resonate with the current state of Black LGBTQ+ activism.
This celebration, sponsored by various organizations including the 30th Anniversary Ad Hoc Committee of Proud Black Lesbians and Gays, is not only a tribute to history but also a testament to the enduring spirit of unity and progress within Chicago’s LGBTQ+ community. While the event is free, reservations are recommended for those attending in person. For those unable to join in person, a live stream will be available on Affinity’s Facebook page, ensuring that this pivotal moment in Chicago’s history is accessible to all.