Rocks Coordinating Committee was established as a tax exempt 501(C)3 in 1996 and continues a tradition that began 34 years ago. In June of 1976, because of their desire to celebrate the cultural diversity that exists within the GBLT communities; a mostly African American and Latino group of GBLT persons decided to gather at Belmont Rocks lakefront instead of participating in the Gay “Pride” celebration. Since its inception, the event has drawn hundreds of locals. As attendance, entertainment, vendor and GLBT organization participation increased each year, the event was moved to Montrose Park, where the event continues to thrive and attract thousands more men, women and transgenders from Chicago and neighboring states. This event allows Rocks Coordinating Committee to facilitate a culturally sensitive GBLT “Pride” health prevention awareness outreach activity that links our community to vital information and life saving health services. Commonly referred to as “The Rocks”, this event is held on the last Sunday in June at Montrose Park’s “Cricket Hill” on Chicago’s lakefront.

The highlight of the event is the recognition of gay/lesbian peers, organizations and straight allies who have contributed significantly to the Black gay/lesbian community in outreach regarding health care, making progress for the best options being accessible to all citizens. Over the years, the likes of Chicago President Todd Stroger, Congressman Danny Davis, State Representative Connie Howard, Director of Illinois Dept. of Public Health, Dr. Damon Arnold, Dr. Terry Mason, State Senator Kwame Raoul as well as our own legendary hostess and entertainer Mz. Ruff N' Stuff have been awarded for their humanitarian efforts.

With up to eight hours of events and activities, thousands flock to set up camping space to barbeque, listen to house music, reunite with acquaintances, and demonstrate their pride. Vendors from Test Positive Action Network (TPAN), Kappa Psi Kappa Fraternity and Affinity will provide information on community events and HIV awareness. Personality icons "Aruba" Tommy Bennett, Otis Mack and Mz. Ruff N’ Stuff will hype the attendees with loads of entertainment from spoken word artists, musical talents and more. The RCC has chosen to host the celebration at the end of June after the Chicago Pride Parade to commemorate the turning point for the modern gay rights movement at the Stonewall Inn in a predominantly Black/Latino area of New York City. Forty One years later, we continue to celebrate and honor that history.

Mission

To establish comprehensive support systems advocating to reduce racial health disparities; by supporting community based efforts which actively engage economically disadvantaged persons in the development of their own well being; we accomplish the mission and goals of empowering and enhancing quality of life years by increasing health literacy and access to preventative screenings.

 

Vision

RCC envision a world where people of color are empowered to participate in a respectful, safe, open and affirming environment amongst peers, regardless of race, age and gender-identity.

 

Goals 1) Our goals are to increase access to preventative screening technology and reduce the burden of

              HIV, Cancer, Obesity and other racial disparities.

          2) Increased knowledge of serostatus for HIV infection.

          3) Increase fast track linkages to prevention, treatment and care services.