InterContinental Hotel displays year-round pride

The InterContinental Hotel Chicago became the first hotel on Michigan Avenue to fly a permanent pride flag on Feb. 8. A special presentation ceremony attracted a large crowd to the elegant Hall of Lions room where general manager Christopher Cawley shared his “pride” at the hotel’s recent accomplishment.

“Today marks a historic moment in time for this iconic hotel. We will be flying the pride flag over Michigan Avenue year-round. Diversity is a fact, inclusion is an act. Our decision to do this signifies a year-round commitment to embrace diversity and foster inclusion. These are concrete steps we can do to ensure this community feels valued and safe in our hotel. During Pride Month, you see a lot of pride flags, but they all come down when the event is over. We want to change that,” said Cawley.

Award-winning female impersonator Mimi Marks welcomed the crowd and shared her excitement about the announcement. She invited guests to join her at the hotel’s annual pool party that will return next June during Pride Month.

Kimberly Bares, president/CEO Magnificent Mile Association, said, “It means a lot to us when we walk into spaces that are obviously welcoming.”

Cawley then thanked Wayne Harth and Tom Kehoe and their teams for making the night possible. Kehoe Designs had donated beautiful props to celebrate the occasion. The flag can be seen waving outside the hotel alongside the city of Chicago, American, Illinois and the hotel’s flags.