Community members can nominate individuals who embody the spirit of Pride to lead the 55th annual parade on Sunday, June 28, 2026
PRIDEChicago, the all-volunteer nonprofit organization that has produced the iconic Chicago Pride Parade for more than 50 years, announced today that nominations are officially open for the Community Grand Marshals who will be honored during the 55th annual Chicago Pride Parade on June 28, 2026.
Beginning with the 2025 parade, PRIDEChicago launched a public nomination process to honor individuals who embody the spirit of Pride, elevate voices, and expand opportunity for all. That tradition continues in 2026, inviting the community once again to help recognize those whose leadership, advocacy, and dedication reflect the values at the heart of the Chicago Pride Parade.
“We’re seeking the changemakers whose everyday leadership lifts our community,” said Terra Campbell, Director of Community Engagement, PRIDEChicago. “From health and wellness to education, civil rights, and economic equity, we’re inviting Chicago to help us spotlight the leaders who keep our city moving forward.”
Nominations for this once-in-a-lifetime recognition will open on October 1, marking the start of LGBTQ+ History Month, and will run through December 31, 2025, through the form at pridechicago.org/nominate. Both self-nominations and nominations submitted by organizations or individuals are welcome.
The final selection for Community Grand Marshals will be made by the PRIDEChicago Board of Directors and announced in April.
“Pride is a year-round commitment to showing up for one another,” said Steve Long, PRIDEChicago Board Chair. “Join us in celebrating the quiet heroes who make a difference every day by nominating a Community Grand Marshal.”
Honoring recent trailblazers
In a historic first, a local community organization served as the inaugural “Out Front” parade leader in 2025: TaskForce Prevention & Community Services, a West Side–based LGBTQ+ youth health and wellness group, recognized for decades of critical service and advocacy.
Marching after TaskForce were the 2025 Community Grand Marshals, Dr. Maya Green and Dr. Catherine Creticos—two trailblazers in healthcare and LGBTQ+ advocacy selected through the public nomination process. Dr. Creticos was the first ally ever to serve as Grand Marshal in the parade’s history.
55 Years of Pride
The 55th annual Chicago Pride Parade is Sunday, June 28, 2026 at 11 a.m. in Chicago’s landmark LGBTQ+ Northalsted neighborhood.
