Sherman Park, 5440 S. Racine, brought out Black LGBT people eager to celebrate the annual Windy City Black Pride. People of all ages crowded around the stage listening to hip hop music and watching live performances. ( The week of Black Pride concluded on July 4. )
'I perform at all the alternative bars throughout Chicago. Last week, I performed at Pride and I was overwhelmed by the response,' said Sonja Jones, a Chicago entertainer who spoke about people reaching out to touch her while on stage.
The emcees acknowledged all the board members from the Windy City Black Pride organization for their hard work in creating an event in which Black gays and lesbians could openly and safely celebrate.
The day was warm. The sun was blazing over people walking around with rainbow decorations embracing cheerful affection. Black Pride was especially family-oriented this year, as small children ran around wearing rainbow jewelry.
'I'm here to celebrate with other people. There are a lot of children out here, but it's good to see so many people coming together to have a good time,' said Deidra Gresham, a South Side resident attending her seventh Wind City Black Pride.
Throughout the park, vendors set up along the sides selling gay pride merchandise, selling barbecue and offering free vaccinations for hepatitis.
'I hope that gay people will feel more comfortable with their sexuality,' said Delowe Frantz. 'I hope that straight people will be more accepting. We're all the same except for sexual orientation.'