Crosswalks
Overview
Globally, rainbow crosswalks have been implemented in LGBTQ+ neighborhoods to symbolize the strength of community and pride.
Currently, rainbow crosswalks are found in 100+ cities, of various sizes, and have acted as a community identifier and tourist attraction. Northalsted Business Alliance is working to bring this symbol of pride to America’s third largest city and now historic landmark neighborhood Northalsted.
It is vital to our community to identify and preserve our neighborhood’s diversity for future generations.
The Chicago Rainbow Pride Crosswalks project development and installation is funded by Northalsted Business Alliance through donations collected at Chicago Pride Fest and Northalsted Market Days.
The public support at the annual summer festivals allows the Northalsted Business Alliance to invest in keeping the Northalsted neighborhood a beautiful, safe and fun community for all to enjoy year round.
A special thank you to Alderman Tunney (44th Ward) and Alderman Cappleman (46th Ward), and the Chicago Department of Transporation for all their help in making the vision become a reality.
Why Northalsted?
Northalsted is home to a diverse mix of LGBTQ+ businesses, services, residents and internationally acclaimed events. In 2019 Northalsted welcomed:
- Chicago Pride Fest (19th Annual)
- Chicago Pride Parade (50th Annual)
- Northalsted Market Days (38th Annual)
- Halloween Parade (23rd Annual)
In addition, Northalsted is home to the Center on Halsted which is Chicago’s LGBTQ+ Community Center, one of the nation’s first LGBTQ+ friendly senior housing developments, Town Hall Apartments and Howard Brown Health Center which focuses on LGBTQ+ health and social services.
Unity
The rainbow design will connect Northalsted across 13 crosswalks as a symbol for all those who are part of the greater LGBTQ+ community.
The 14th crosswalk will be dedicated to the transgender community with the inclusion of the blue, pink and white stripes found on the transgender flag.
This crosswalk will be located on Melrose Street south of Howard Brown Health Center which features a wall mural that honors the queer and non-binary community.
