CHICAGO (WLS) — One of many metropolis’s largest parades is downsizing.
Organizers of the Chicago Pleasure Parade mentioned the occasion might be smaller this June.
Entries might be capped at 125 group. That’s down 35% from final yr. The parade may also kick off an hour earlier, at 11 a.m.
“We perceive there might be some disillusioned teams that won’t march with us this yr; we lengthen a heartfelt thanks in your help and understanding,” as assertion from parade organizers learn. “We stay dedicated to prioritizing LGBTQ+ organizations, LGBTQ+-owned companies, and companies with LGBTQ Worker Useful resource Teams.”
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Alderwoman Maria Hadden of the forty ninth Ward, a member of the particular occasions committee, mentioned she will be able to solely speculate that there is concern about over-extending the town’s police division forward of the Democratic Nationwide Conference later this summer time.
“I feel we have got 5 actually huge citywide occasions taking place earlier than we even get to the DNC, and that is likely to be trigger for concern,” Hadden mentioned.
The Chicago Division of Transportation didn’t reply to why the Pleasure Parade is being downsized and whether or not different occasions this summer time may also must cut back..
“As with all main occasions within the metropolis, we’re continuously evaluating choices to enhance security whereas additionally delivering the very best expertise for our guests, residents, and neighborhood,” a press release from CDOT learn.
The Heart on Halsted participates within the parade. Joey McDonald mentioned the group works intently with organizers to plan the occasion. He mentioned regardless of the smaller dimension, there’ll nonetheless be an enormous celebration.
“Individuals are nonetheless enthusiastic about it,” McDonald mentioned. “Individuals will need to take part. We’re planning big.”
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McDonald mentioned the parade can draw a whole lot of hundreds of individuals to Lakeview and surrounding neighborhoods.
Will probably be the 53rd yr for the parade. It steps off June 30.
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