The inaugural Family Gay Pride Outing at a Chicago Sky game is set for Thursday, June 23, when the Connecticut Sun come to town. Tip-off is set for 7 p.m.
The Chicago Metropolitan Sports Association (CMSA) has reserved a block of 250 tickets for the game at a discounted rate ($12), and CMSA officials encourage attendees to bring their entire families.
"I encourage everyone to participate and bring the kids out for a great time," said CMSA's Sam Hamilton, an event organizer. "Not only will the kids benefit from having the experience of attending and watching a women's professional basketball game, but, [they] will have the opportunity to spend time with other kids who also have gay parents or family members. This will help boost confidence and comfort levels and help them realize that they are not alone or different, and there are other kids with the same parenting/family structure."
All who purchase a ticket through CMSA also will receive a free ticket to another regular-season Sky game. There will be an in-game raffle, held specifically for CMSA, and one person will receive a Sky autographed item. Plus, one person will win two courtside seats for a regular-season Sky game of their choice (based on availability).
"Though it will be a great opportunity for the kids, it also will be a lot of fun for the adults," Hamilton said. "There will be venders with alcohol and snacks like at any sporting event. Come out and support the team and show your gay pride."
To buy tickets, use the promo code "CMSA" and visit tinyurl.com/cmsasky.