Champaign-Urbana's Uniting Pride Expands LGBTQ+ Support During Pride Month
Champaign-Urbana is actively celebrating Pride Month with a series of events and initiatives aimed at supporting the LGBTQ+ community. The central figure in these celebrations is Uniting Pride, a nonprofit organization dedicated to serving LGBTQ+ residents in Champaign County and east-central Illinois. Founded in 2009, Uniting Pride has become a key resource center, offering support groups, educational programs, and community events. The organization is committed to promoting equality and visibility for LGBTQ+ individuals, providing resources such as a food pantry, a lending library, and gender-affirming clothing programs. The annual Champaign-Urbana Pride Fest, organized by Uniting Pride, is one of the largest Pride celebrations in Illinois outside of Chicago, drawing thousands for parades and entertainment. Although traditionally held in the fall, the organization continues to host events throughout June to align with national Pride Month. 
