Did you know that Chicago is home to the very first LGBTQIA+ rights organization in the US (1924) AND the first Pride Parade in the world (1970)? As we celebrate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, we are also taking time to consider the ways people in the United States practice democracy through their words and actions. When people think of Chicago's LGBTQIA+ neighborhoods, North Side areas like Northalsted (Boystown) and Andersonville often come to mind first. The city's South Side, however, had lively LGBTQIA+ activity generations before any North Side neighborhood and frequently shaped culture across the nation. This tour with Mike McMains of Tours with Mike puts a spotlight on the South Loop's and Bronzeville's fascinating neighborhood evolutions along with their hidden LGBTQIA+ histories, including the: Mother of the Blues and the Godfather of House Music Drag ball scene drawing diverse crowds from across the city First Black woman playwright to have a show on Broadway City's most notorious former vice districts Legendary sites shaping house music Attendees can enhance their tour experience by using their smartphones to view historical photographs related to the tour topics. $50, $45 members Tour runs approximately 90-120 minutes. This tour meets and ends in front of the Harris Theater for Music and Dance, 205 E. Randolph St., Chicago, IL 60601. Tour also includes free admission to the Chicago History Museum, good for one week from tour date. Masks are optional but encouraged for our bus tours. Learn more about our COVID-19 safety policies and procedures.