Happy holidays, Block Clubbers,
It’s tiiiiiiiiiiime — the holiday season is here. And if you’re still hunting for something special for everyone on your list, I’ve got just the guide for you.
Last month, I rounded up eight LGBTQ+-owned shops across Chicago to support this holiday season. It was a reminder of how queer-owned businesses help shape the neighborhoods. And while it might seem small — does ownership really matter? — the more I thought about it, the more the answer felt like "yes."
Seeing your identity reflected in the places you shop and the people who run those businesses matters. At a moment when the United States is becoming less welcoming to LGBTQ+ people, watching queer-owned businesses thrive is meaningful. Even spotting a Pride flag in a storefront window from an allied business can make a difference.
For those who rightfully have mixed feelings about around the holidays, we have resources to share. The Trevor Project has an excellent guide on going home for the holidays here. Or, if you're looking for something to do in Chicago, check out The Real Housewives of the North Pole Drag Show, a Hanukkah Menorah Lighting & Drag Queen Storytime or the Center on Halsted's range of programs.
Lastly, let me say this for anyone and everyone who needs to hear it: You are loved. You are important. The world is a better place with you in it.
Happy Pride, all year round,
Jake Cox
Newsletter Intern
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From queer literature to tickets to a drag cooking class, you’ll find something for everyone at these LGBTQ+-owned businesses while supporting a marginalized community. |
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Pick up a bottle from Bronzeville Winery, a book from Build Coffee or a vintage goodie at So Happy You’re Here to support affirming businesses on the South Side. |
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The LGBTQ- and POC-owned cannabis dispensary has the perfect gift for your 21-and-older kin, or its merriments could make a great gift to yourself. |
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It's a cozy Logan Square spot to celebrate the holidays in good company and grab merch for the women's sports lover in your life. |
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“City in a Garden” traces the history of the city’s LGBTQ+ community. Give the gift of an MCA membership or a ticket to see the exhibit. |
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Da Book Joint and Stoviink Creatives offer books, home goods and wellness items, making it a one-stop shop for everyone on your list. |
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Affinity 95 is a Black- and queer-led group that works to advance social justice within and for Black LGBTQ+ communities. More here.
The AIDS Foundation of Chicago advocates for people living with or vulnerable to HIV and AIDS. More here.
Brave Space Alliance is a Black- and trans-led LGBTQ+ center that is based in Hyde Park but works with people throughout Chicago. More here.
The Center on Halsted provides a wide array of health and wellness care to LGBTQ+ people. More here.
The Crib provides emergency housing and other services to young Chicagoans, with many of its residents identifying as LGBTQ+. It is run by the Night Ministry. More here.
Howard Brown Health provides affirming health and wellness care to LGBTQ+ people. More here.
Invisible 2 Invincible (i2i) is an organization that aims to celebrate and affirm LGBTQ+ Asians and Pacific Islanders living in the Chicago area. More here.
Lambda Legal Illinois is the local branch of a national legal organization that advocates for the rights of LGBTQ+ people. More here.
Parents, Families and Friends of Lesbians and Gays, which has a Chicago chapter, works to support LGBTQ+ people and their families. More here.
Trikone Chicago works to create a supportive, affirming environment for LGBTQ+ South Asians in and around Chicago. More here.
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About Proud City |
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Proud City is Block Club’s LGBTQ+ news hub, featuring stories and resources.
Newsletter by Jake Cox
Proud City illustrations by artist Brian Rau
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Thanks for supporting Block Club Chicago, an independent, 501(c)(3), journalist-run newsroom. Every dime we make
funds reporting from Chicago’s neighborhoods. Click here to support Block Club with a tax-deductible donation. Subscribe here.
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