African-American gays and lesbians of all ages for years have gathered in Jackson Park and at Promontory Point on Chicago's South Side during the warm summer months. But recently, park visitors have accused the Chicago Police Department's Lakefront Mobile Unit of harassment.
On Monday night, 5th Ward Ald. Leslie Hairston sponsored a forum to address allegations that police are targeting minorities and gays in the park, located just south of Hyde Park and the Museum of Science and Industry.
"Older gays, from ages 30-50, are particularly vulnerable," said Michael O'Connor, a gay activist and legislative aide to state Rep. Constance Howard. "Police are calling gays names, and ticketing them for misdemeanors such as drinking, or parking problems."
O'Connor said these cases do not involve any solicitation claims by police...they appear to be misdemeanors, and an attempt to increase revenues for the police department. He said the police seem to be selectively enforcing laws, and that other parks, including where white gays gather at Belmont Harbor, do not receive such police scrutiny.
The Hyde Park Herald has reported on the incidents, including in their Aug. 1 edition, where they said a society of African-American gay professionals was harassed.
O'Connor, who is a member of the social club, told Windy City Times that he personally has also experienced police abuse.
The police department said there has been no change in orders given to the Lakefront Mobil units.
O'Connor and others are also calling on the Chicago Park District to take the lead in addressing the alleged harassment taking place within the borders of the city's public parks.