The Chicago Gay and Le***an Hall of Fame is both a historic event and an exhibit. Through the Hall of Fame, residents of Chicago and the world are made aware of the contributions of Chicago's le***an, gay, bisexual, and transgender communities and the communities' efforts to eradicate homophobic bias and discrimination. With the support of the City of Chicago Commission on Human Relations, the Adv
isory Council on Gay and Le***an Issues (later the Advisory Council on Le***an, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Issues) established the Chicago Gay and Le***an Hall of Fame in June 1991. The inaugural induction ceremony took place during Gay and Le***an Pride Week at City Hall, hosted by Mayor Richard M. The Hall of Fame recognizes the volunteer and professional achievements of LGBT people, their organizations, and their friends, as well as their contributions to the LGBT communities and to the city of Chicago. This is a unique tribute to dedicated individuals and organizations whose services have improved the quality of life for all of Chicago's citizens. Induction into the Hall of Fame symbolizes that the recipient either has made a contribution with far-reaching effects on the quality of life for Chicago's le***an and gay community or the city of Chicago, or has made a significant long-term contribution to the well-being of Chicago's LGBT communities. The Chicago Gay and Le***an Hall of Fame is privately funded through generous donations from individuals, businesses, and organizations. Staff support is provided by volunteers. The Hall of Fame is now overseen by Friends of the Chicago Gay and Le***an Hall of Fame, a 501(c)3 not-for-profit corporation, in cooperation with the City of Chicago.
