The Rockford Area Pride Committee is thrilled to invite community members, allies, and visitors to take part in the 2025 Rockford Pride Festivities — a month-long celebration of love, diversity, and unity throughout the Stateline region. Rooted in a mission to amplify LGBTQIA+ voices and experiences, the committee works year-round to create inclusive spaces and events, with support from local advocates, sponsors, and community contributions.
Rockford Pride Parade – Saturday, June 7
The highlight of the festivities kicks off at 12:00 PM on Saturday, June 7 with the Rockford Area Pride Parade. Beginning at the intersection of East State Street and Charles Street, the parade travels west along East State, crosses the scenic Rock River, and concludes at Wyman Street. Street closures will begin at 11:00 AM, so plan accordingly to secure the best viewing spot along the parade route.
This year’s parade will honor three distinguished individuals as Grand Marshals, each selected to represent one of the Pride Parade’s central themes: Celebrate, Remember, and Unite.
- Celebrate – Auntie Heroine: A decade-long icon of Rockford’s drag scene, Auntie Heroine is celebrated for their sharp wit, boundary-pushing performances, and national recognition as a finalist on The Boulet Brothers’ Dragula Season 6. Fiercely loyal to their Rockford roots, Auntie Heroine exemplifies the spirit of joy, expression, and community.
- Remember – Curt McKay: As the first full-time director of the University of Illinois’ LGBT Resource Center, Curt McKay’s pioneering leadership during a pivotal era advanced LGBTQIA+ visibility and safety in higher education. His legacy remains a guiding light for advocacy and progress.
- Unite – Jenna Goldsmith: A poet, educator, and activist, Jenna Goldsmith uses her voice to empower Rockford’s LGBTQIA+ community. As the City of Rockford’s second Poet Laureate (2023–2024), her work in education and advocacy, including support for the LIAM Foundation, continues to build bridges and amplify marginalized voices.
Attendees are encouraged to sign the official Rockford Area Pride Chronicle, a symbolic record of participation and support for the LGBTQIA+ community. By signing, individuals show their solidarity through all of the community’s triumphs and challenges.
Continue the Celebration: The Back Alley Pride Party
After the parade, keep the energy going at The Back Alley Pride Party, hosted by The Office Niteclub. This event promises a vibrant mix of live performances, drag shows, great food, and music in an inclusive space where everyone can celebrate freely and authentically.
Honoring LGBTQIA+ Veterans – Sunday, June 15
On Sunday, June 15 at 12:00 PM, join us in honoring LGBTQIA+ veterans during a special ceremony at Veterans Memorial Hall in downtown Rockford. Local Girl Scout Troops will raise the rainbow flag in tribute to the contributions and sacrifices of LGBTQIA+ service members.
Also on June 15, visit a compelling historical exhibit dedicated to Albert Cashier, a transgender soldier from Belvidere who served in the Civil War. This powerful display — a collaboration between Midway Village Museum, Veterans Memorial Hall, and the Rockford Area Pride Committee — offers insight into the life and legacy of a local hero whose courage on and off the battlefield continues to inspire.
Learn More and Get Involved
For a full schedule of events, volunteer opportunities, and additional details, visit the Rockford Area Pride website at: www.rockfordareapride.org
Join us this June to celebrate authenticity, honor our history, and unite in the ongoing pursuit of equality. We can’t wait to see you there!
Author: Jordan DeWilde | Chief News Director | Rockford Area Pride
Photo credit: Kevin Haas/ Rock River Current
