CHICAGO – State Senator Mike Simmons (D-Chicago) is partnering with Gerber/Hart Library and Archives Friday to host a Pride Month Reflection press conference.

Simmons, who is the first openly gay member of the Illinois State Senate, will be joined by representatives from Gerber/Hart and several other Chicago-based LGBTQA+ advocacy and support groups to reflect on Pride Month, recognize and acknowledge the hard work of advocates, honor and lift up survivors of violence, and discuss the progress that has been made and the work that remains to be done.

A brief 15-minute window for press questions will precede the program, which is expected to last approximately one hour.

WHAT: Pride Month Reflection Press Conference with Senator Mike Simmons

WHEN: 1:30 p.m. on Friday, June 25, 2021

WHERE: Gerber/Hart Library

               6500 N. Clark St

WHO: Mike Simmons – State Senator, 7^th District

            Wil Brant – Director, Gerber/Hart Library and Archives

            LaSaia Wade – Founder & Executive Director, Brave Space Alliance

            Anna DeShawn – Board President, Affinity Community Services

            Kujichagulia Juniper (K.J.) Whitehead – Comedian, writer and activist

            Mike Ziri – Director of Legislative Affairs, Equality Illinois

            David Ernesto Munar – President & CEO, Howard Brown Health

            Anthony Galloway – Community advocate

            TBD – The Chicago Therapy Collective / Hire Trans Now

            Additional speakers to be announced.