Queer Chicago History Tour for Journalists

Join NLGJA Chicago for a Pride Month exploration of Chicago's LGBTQ+ history.

Led by queer historian Daniel Williams, this walking tour examines a little-known chapter of the city's past. In 1948, Chicago police launched a crackdown on gay bars in the River North neighborhood, ordering bar owners to remove window coverings so officers could monitor activity inside. The tour visits the sites targeted during the crackdown and explores how LGBTQ+ Chicagoans built community in the face of surveillance and discrimination.

Following the approximately 90-minute tour, attendees are invited to continue the conversation during a happy hour and Q&A with Williams at Second Story.

This event is designed for journalists and media professionals interested in Chicago history, LGBTQ+ communities and the stories that shape our city.

Space is limited to 20 attendees.

Schedule:

3 p.m. — Walking tour begins

Approximately 4:30 p.m. — Happy hour and Q&A at Second Story

About the guide:

Daniel Williams is a queer historian and educator who leads walking tours exploring Chicago's LGBTQ+ past. https://sites.google.com/danielwilliamstx.com/chiqueerhistory/home