On June 26, Emerging Leaders Chicago hosted Proud to be Pride, its annual Pride Month event, at Hopsmith Tavern, bringing together professionals, allies, and community members to highlight the diverse voices that make up our vibrant workforce. This evening featured a distinguished panel of speakers, including:

  • Nicole McCarthy, Vice President of Innovation & Venture at World Business Chicago
  • Julio Rodriguez, Deputy Director of the Office of Employment and Training at the Illinois Department of Commerce & Economic Opportunity, and
  • Mark Wuchte, Principal Risk Advisory Financial Services Leader at Baker Tilly US.

This event featured powerful short talks, where each speaker spotlighted personal stories on how LGBTQ+ identity intersects with leadership, innovation, and public service. The speakers explored their views on identity, courage, and the LGBTQ+ community’s place within our vibrant network. Their reflections and thoughts remind us that visibility, vulnerability, and representation are vital in both the professional and personal spaces.

Julio Rodriguez shared his experience navigating life as a gay man, and underscored the importance of holding strong to our own power and sense of belonging. He reminded the audience, “…never give up your power, whether you’re a woman, whether you’re gay, whether you’re older, whether you’re somebody with a disability. Never let somebody tell you: you do not have power.”

A highlight of the evening was a special proclamation presented by Rodriguez on behalf of the Governor’s Office and the Illinois DCEO, of the Pride Month 2025 Proclamation. This announcement affirmed the state’s commitment to inclusivity and equality. This official recognition added even more significance to this event!

Nicole McCarthy reflected on the power of celebration during times of social isolation, emphasizing that gatherings like Pride offer important spaces where people can express their true selves; a purpose that echoes the movement’s roots as a bold act of liberation. “We all know that Pride began as a protest, but the soul of it remains the same. We’re reclaiming space in a world that consistently tries to erase us”, McCarthy stated.

Mark Wuchte opened up about his journey as a gay man in the workforce, sharing the challenges he faced while concealing his identity. He encouraged everyone to embrace their own authentic self, stating, “Always remember to be your true self, and always remember the people around you will accept you—and if they don’t, they’re not worth [your] time.”

The program left everyone with a renewed sense of purpose, connection, and resilience. The stories shared were powerful, authentic, and vulnerable, reminding us that community is at the heart of progress. Events like this continue to pave the way for a more inclusive and empowered future, where identity is never a limitation, only a strength.