It was a historic moment as the LGBTQ+ Pride Flag was hoisted in the air outside St. Charles' city hall, a sign for many in the community that it's okay to be their true selves.
"I've lived here all my life, and this is the first time we've raised the Pride Flag. We're very proud of it," said Mike Linder, vice president and treasurer of Out in Fox Valley, a nonprofit dedicated to increasing LGBTQ+ acceptance.
"We need programs that make us feel included. We need events like this that make us feel safe and respected," said Michael Stroud, founder and president of Out in Fox Valley.The small group outside the St. Charles city building also used it the moment to honor Michael Fairbanks, a young LGBTQ+ advocate who passed away in 2013."Michael opened hearts, he changed attitudes, and he improved many lives with his advocacy," said his mother, Denise.
As Pride Month kicks off, there are various events taking place across the state this year, including Chicago's Pride Fest on June 18, and the iconic Chicago Pride Parade on June 26."St. Charles has proven itself to be a very friendly place to live for LGBTQ people, and it takes people to just realize the power of their own voice," Stroud said.
Meantime, the St. Charles Park District is hosting its first Pride event at the Baker Community Center on June 15.
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