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Pride Committee

Congressman Eric Sorenson Visits The LIAM Foundation to View Pride Kickoff Display

ROCKFORD, IL - March 28, 2024 - This morning, Congressman Eric Sorenson visited Rockford to tour The LIAM Foundation Headquarters and to view the compelling display titled "50 Years: The Stonewall Uprising." This special exhibition, one of the Rockford Area Pride Kickoff Events, is a joint collaboration between The LIAM Foundation and the Rockford Area Pride Committee. The congressman met with Phyllis Gallisath, Executive Director of The LIAM Foundation, and Andrew J. Mertzenich, Chair of the Rockford Area Pride Committee, and other staff and committee members to discuss the history, advocacy, and future initiatives of both organizations.


3 people having a conversation
Eric Sorenson and Eden conversing with Phyllis Gallisath about The LIAM Foundation and the Rockford Area Pride Parade

Currently on display at The LIAM Foundation Headquarters, 1005 Fifth Avenue, Rockford, IL 61104, the exhibition offers a comprehensive look back at the historic Stonewall Uprising that took place half a century ago. The event marked a pivotal moment in the LGBTQ+ rights movement, serving as a catalyst for significant change and progress.


During the meeting, Congressman Sorenson and the organization leaders also highlighted the upcoming Rockford Area Pride Parade, scheduled to step off on June 1, 2024, at 11:00 am in downtown Rockford, Illinois. The parade's theme, "Celebrate, Remember, Unite!", encapsulates the spirit of the event, emphasizing the importance of celebrating diversity, remembering the struggles and triumphs of the LGBTQ+ community, and uniting for a more inclusive and equitable future.


A picture of two people shaking hands
Andrew J. Mertzenich, Chair of the Rockford Area Pride Committee, thanks Congressman Eric Sorenson for visiting.

The display features a curated collection of stories, photographs, and historic records that provide insights into the events leading up to and following the Stonewall Uprising. Visitors can explore the stories of individuals who played pivotal roles in the movement and learn about the challenges and triumphs they faced in their fight for equality.


The "50 Years: The Stonewall Uprising" display is open to the public daily through March 31 from 12:00 pm to 2:00 pm. It offers a unique opportunity for community members and visitors alike to engage with this important history and reflect on its relevance to contemporary issues facing the LGBTQ+ community.


During his visit, the congressman also toured The LIAM Foundation Headquarters, complimenting on how it has moved from a service-only organization into a thriving community center for the LGBTQ+ population in and around Rockford, Illinois.


For more information about the exhibition, the Rockford Area Pride Parade, or The LIAM Foundation, please contact:


Phyllis Gallisath

Executive Director

The LIAM Foundation

1005 Fifth Ave.

Rockford IL 61104


Website for The Liam Foundation: www.theliamfoundation.org.

Website for Rockford Area Pride Committee: www.RockfordAreaPride.org.


The Rockford Area Pride Committee is a registered 501c3 organization that fundraises for deserving nonprofits and charities through its efforts in hosting the annual Rockford Area Pride Parade. Information on the parade and the Committee can be found on the Committee's website.


The 2024 Rockford Area Pride Parade is presented by the City of Rockford and US Bank.



The 2024 Rockford Area Pride Parade is also only possibly from these generous sponsors.




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