Vern Hester

3 days ago | windycitytimes.com | Vern Hester

On May 8, the Equality Illinois advocacy held its annual Lobby Day event in Springfield-with the highest turnout ever, according to the organization-gathering LGBTQ+ advocates from across the state to connect with their legislators face-to-face. This year, advocates spoke out about three pending bills: The Safe Schools for All Act (HB 3297 and SB 2065), The Healthcare Transparency Act (HB 2904 and SB 1679) and The Equality for Family Act (SB 2507 and HB 2623).

1 week ago | windycitytimes.com | Vern Hester

On the afternoon of May 4, Chicago House held its 39th Annual Spring Brunch and Fashion Show at Harold Washington Library. The event, titled "Once Upon a Time," featured a fairy tale motif with dancers, vocal performances and a flower and fashion show. The organizers also discussed Chicago House's shift in focus toward housing and care for elder members of the LGBTQ+ community living with HIV.

2 weeks ago | windycitytimes.com | Vern Hester

Afterglow returned April 25 at the Bramble Arts Loft, 5545 N. Clark St., and showed that it's no longer just a queer variety show. Afterglow has intentionally or not become reminiscent of a 19th century European salon. The show is still low-key-but the vibe is warm, intimate, introspective, ribald in spots and altogether absorbing. There's a mix of high- and low-brow comedy, mind-bending live music, and engaging poetry readings and spoken word performances-all with a welcoming queer flavor.

2 weeks ago | windycitytimes.com | Vern Hester

Iconic local entrepreneur, comedian, radio personality, and promoter Otis Mack celebrated 35 years of entertaining with a sold out show at LIPS Chicago at 2229 S. Michigan Avenue. The April 27 event was jam packed with co-workers, entertainers, and friends, some traveling as far as California, for a star-studded evening of polished drag, male burlesque, high and low comedy and an awful lot of heart.

2 weeks ago | windycitytimes.com | Vern Hester

On April 24, FashionBar, in partnership with Howard Brown Health and Life is Work, held its annual Trans Media Fashion Show as part of Fashion Week. The event, which took place at Water Tower Place, 835 N. Michigan Ave., annually puts the spotlight on LGBTQ+ wellness.