With the name change, many organizations acknowledge those who have spoken up about this issue. In a 2020 online survey by the Northalsted Business Alliance, about 80% of participants stated that they didn’t feel welcome by the name ‘Boystown’. However, the recent petition from Camp emphasizes how some members of the LGBTQIA+ community feel welcomed by the name. With the Northalsted Business Alliance ending the use of the name Boystown in September, what are the implications of the name change and the history of this North Side neighborhood?īoystown has always been known as a diverse, inclusive community. Camp cited instances of transphobia, racism and sexism in their call to action. Gay bars have been replaced with mainstream restaurants, rent prices have skyrocketed, and many of the longtime residents have been displaced.Īdding on to these changes is the neighborhood’s new name and branding - Northalsted.Ĭonversations around changing the neighborhood’s nickname began online over the summer when organizer Devlyn Camp started a petition to retire the name Boystown. However, in recent years, Boystown has shifted significantly.
In Chicago, Boystown has been that refuge for many generations of queer Chicagoans.
Predominately LGBT+ neighborhoods exist across the world as safe havens for queer residents.
