Waukegan Pride Parade and Festival: A Celebration of Community Spirit

The Waukegan Pride Parade and Festival marked its fifth annual celebration with a focus on community and unity. People gathered along the parade route, enjoying colorful floats and eventually congregating at the lakefront for the festivities.

A Community Celebration

Greg Brown, president of Waukegan Friends, the organizer of the event, emphasized the idea of bringing together people from both the city and nearby towns. According to Brown, the event highlights the unity achieved when the city works for its residents, regardless of background. While the organization is rooted in the LGBTQ+ community, the event aims to showcase Waukegan as a welcoming place for all.

“We are celebrating for and in Waukegan,” Brown stated. He noted that the city’s warmth lies in its acceptance of its LGBTQ+ members, contributing to a strong and inclusive community. This has helped shape Waukegan into what it is today.

The Parade Experience

The parade featured the city’s Fire Department leading the way, followed by Brown pulling a decorative float along Sheridan Road. Mayor Sam Cunningham participated, riding in a convertible, and talked about Waukegan’s tradition of being a diverse and welcoming city. “The city of Waukegan was the first community in Lake County to fly the pride flag,” Cunningham pointed out, reinforcing values of respect and unity.

Participants included members of the LGBTQ+ Center of Lake County and the Lambda Car Club, which showcased 25 automobiles ranging from classics to modern cars. These displays added an exciting flair to the event.

The Festival at the Lakefront

Post-parade activities moved to the lakefront, welcoming over 4,000 attendees to enjoy entertainment, food, and drinks. Performers took center stage, and food trucks and vendors set up in Siver Park to cater to the crowd.

Lore and Bill Anderson, along with family members, watched the decorations and parade, supporting the event as a show of community strength. “We are supporting the Pride event in these political times,” said Lore Anderson.

Community Support and Performances

Festival-goers like Evan and Alyse Middleton found joy in both the entertainment and community solidarity. “It’s important to show support for community members,” Alyse Middleton remarked. She stressed the value of coming together and enjoying the cultural offerings of the day.

Civic and Business Participation

Eric Schuermann, president of the Lake Michigan Region of the Lambda Car Club, highlighted the club’s involvement, portraying love for cars within the LGBTQ+ community. He and club members drove their vehicles in the parade, showcasing them to the public.

Religious communities also played a part. The Rev. Mark Rollenhagen from St. Paul’s Lutheran Church walked alongside congregants, expressing support for LGBTQ+ members. He declared, “We are all children of God.” His church has embraced inclusivity by becoming a Reconciling in Christ community.

Local Business Engagement

American Place Casino participated through a delegation led by Brooke Wallace, the public relations manager. They partnered with Waukegan Friends to reinforce their commitment to the local community.

The festival embodied values of acceptance, bringing together diverse groups to celebrate inclusion and unity in Waukegan.