THE VOICE OF CHICAGO'S GAY, LESBIAN, BI, TRANS AND QUEER COMMUNITY SINCE 1985

Like previous CAKE events, this year's expo will host local and multinational comics artists and publishers, including notable special guests selling their books, prints and other wares.

In a press release, CAKE listed several reasons for the site change, saying, " Broadway Armory provides more space and more amenities to contend with the event's ever-growing popularity."

However, CAKE also stated, "Members of the CAKE organizing committee dedicate themselves to maintaining the expo and all events associated with it to be safe, [welcoming] spaces for all. It is with this spirit that CAKE made the decision to end their relationship with Center on Halsted.

"There is no doubt that [the Center] has made significant contributions to the health and welfare of Chicago's LGBTQ community. However, in a Medium article written by Loyola professor Devon Price, troubling revelations came to light concerning the security firm hired by [the Center[ and its chief's documented history with racist violence.

"Deeply concerned by Price's report, CAKE organizers requested that interventions be made by [the Center]. When action was not taken in a timely and satisfactory manner, CAKE organizers decided as a group to relocate."

Windy City Times has also reported extensively on the matter, most recently noting that the Center selected a new security provider, according to a Jan. 22 statement. The security firm—Quantum Security, LLC, whose other clients include Howard Brown Health Center, Broadway Youth Center, Triple S, La Casa Norte Pierce House and the Firehouse Community Arts Center—comes after a selection process that began last September. Quantum is replacing the controversial Walsch Security.

See CAKEChicago.com .