FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
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Contact: Rosa Yadira Ortiz, (312) 287-5644
Cynthia Ibarra, (773) 344-4984
Tania Unzueta, (773)387-3186
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Pilsen neighborhood to host Dyke March
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Chicago, IL (May 14, 2008) - For the first time in the 12 year history of Dyke* March Chicago (DMC), it will move from Andersonville to the predominantly Mexican neighborhood of Pilsen, in an effort to mobilize communities across the city.
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DMC has a history of being different from other pride celebrations that traditionally occur in the month of June, as it has a stated purpose of being “a direct response to male dominated, corporate sponsored” events as well as being a grassroots, volunteer-led march.
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The location change occurs after a series of community meetings and events addressing the need for more spaces for LGBTQ (lesbian, bisexual, transgender, questioning and queer) people, particularly women and transgender people of color, in communities throughout the city.
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Pilsen was chosen as the first neighborhood to hold DMC because it has a history of mobilization by the LGBTQ community and support from community institutions and organizations. In 2006 Radio Arte held the first prom for LGBTQ youth, also the same year that the National Museum of Mexican Art held a celebration for Latino athletes who participated in the Gay Games VII. The organizers, some of whom are residents and activists in Pilsen, feel that it is a good space to begin conversations about identity, community, and sexuality.
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In future years DMC will be held in various neighborhoods around the city in upcoming years. The location will be discussed amongst community members through forums, as it was this year.
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DMC will take place on Saturday June 28th, 2008. Gathering begins at 1:00 PM at 1800 South Halsted (Chicago Community Bank Park), and step off is at 2:30 PM. Attendees will then march down 18th street to rally at Harrison Park (1824 S. Wood).
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All people, including allies to the community, are encouraged to attend.
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For more information e-mail dykemarchchicago (at) gmail.com, or visit www.myspace.com/dykemarchchi cago.
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* A note on terminology: Please note that the word “dyke” has a history of being a pejorative term, and may be perceived as offensive by some. At Dyke March however, we also are aware of the power of reclaiming terms that have been used against us. Dyke March choses to use the word “dyke” as a politicized, empowering and reclaimed word, and as an umbrella term for women who have relationships with other women, exclusively or not.
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Chicago Dyke March is a grassroots mobilization and celebration of dyke, queer, and transgender resilience. It is an anti-racist, anti-violent, volunteer-led, grassroots effort with a goal to bridge together communities across race, class, age, size, sex, gender, sexuality, ethnicity, culture, immigrant status, spirituality, and ability.