PRIDEChicago – the all-volunteer organization that has produced the iconic Chicago Pride Parade for more than 50 years, has announced a new nomination process for Community Grand Marshals to be honored in the 54th annual Chicago Pride Parade.
Starting with the 2025 parade, PRIDEChicago is seeking community nominations for individuals who embody the spirit of Pride and have advanced the principles of equality, inclusivity and empowerment.
“We are looking for icons who have tirelessly championed social justice, promoted health and wellness, advocated for education and civil rights, fostered economic equality, or demonstrated exceptional leadership,” said Terra Campbell, PRIDEChicago director of community engagement.
Nominations for the once in a lifetime recognition will be open from October 22 – December 31, 2024 through the form located at pridechicago.org/nominate.
“Let us come together to celebrate and honor those who have made a profound impact within our local LGBTQ+ community,” said Campbell.
The final selection for Community Grand Marshals will be made by the PRIDEChicago Board of Directors in late March 2025.
Three prominent couples served as Grand Marshals in 2024. Comedian Fortune Feimster and her wife, Jax Smith, served as celebrity Grand Marshals. The two met at Chicago Pride in 2015, just days after the Supreme Court’s historic ruling for nationwide marriage equality.
Feimster and Smith were joined by Community Grand Marshals Art Johnston and José Pepe Peña, longtime LGBTQ+ activists and owners of Sidetrack, and high-profile transgender couple and community organizers Myles and Precious Brady-Davis.
The 54th annual Chicago Pride Parade is Sunday, June 29, 2025 at 11 a.m. in Chicago’s landmark LGBTQ+ Northalsted neighborhood.
About PRIDEChicago
PRIDEChicago is a vibrant and dynamic volunteer-powered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization serving the LGBTQ+ community since 1974. We are proud to have produced the iconic Chicago Pride Parade for over 50 years.
