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One of the signature events during June Pride Month is the Gay & Lesbian Hall of Fame "Pride & Joy Reception." Held this year on June 22 at Circuit Night Club, the annual event is a fun community gathering featuring the Hall of Fame Exhibit, music and live entertainment. The origins of the Gay and Lesbian Hall of Fame dates back to 1991 when it was established with the support of the City of Chicago Commission on Human Relations' Advisory Council on Gay and Lesbian Issues. The inaugural induction ceremony was the first event of its kind in the country and took place in June 1991. Hosted by Mayor Richard M. Daley at City Hall, the historic event had 14 inductees: Ortez Alderson, Jon-Henri Damski, James W. Flint, Gay Chicago Magazine, Renee Hanover, Howard Brown Health Center, Judith Johns, Carol Johnson, William Kelley, Marie Kuda, Chuck Renslow, Adrienne Smith, Ph.D, Max Smith, and Richard Turner. The Hall of Fame is a unique tribute that recognizes the volunteer and professional achievements of members of the GLBT community, their organizations, and their friends. Induction symbolizes that the recipient has made a contribution with far-reaching effects on the quality of life for Chicago's GLBT community or made a significant long-term contribution to the community's well-being. According to its Associate Director Israel Wright, "The Hall of Fame is privately funded through donations from individuals, businesses, and organizations. We also raise funds from the Pride Reception and the Annual Celebrity Auction which will take place September 22 at Sidetrack." The nominations process is ongoing for the 2009 class of inductees that will be honored and presented at a ceremony on November 12 at the Chicago Cultural Center. Nominations forms can be picked up at the Pride & Joy Reception or found at www.glhalloffame.org and according to Wright, "Self-nominations are accepted. " 18th Annual Pride & Joy Reception |
