Rockford Area Pride Committee Seeks Nominations for 2026 Honorary Grand Marshals

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Community is invited to nominate extraordinary LGBTQIA+ leaders and advocates.

ROCKFORD, IL – February 9, 2026 – The Rockford Area Pride Committee is pleased to announce that nominations are now open for the Honorary Grand Marshal(s) of the 2026 Rockford Area Pride Parade, scheduled for Saturday, June 6, 2026. The role of Honorary Grand Marshal is one of the highest honors bestowed by Rockford Area Pride, reserved for individuals who have made extraordinary contributions to the LGBTQIA+ community in the Greater Rockford Area. This year's selection process is guided by three core values that reflect the spirit of Pride: Celebration, Remembering, and Uniting.

"We are looking for remarkable individuals who embody the joy, resilience, and solidarity of our community," said a representative from the Rockford Area Pride Committee. "Whether through advocacy, service, leadership, or simply living their truth with courage, our Honorary Grand Marshal(s) represent the best of who we are and who we aspire to be."

Nominators are asked to address how their nominee represents each of the three core values:

• CELEBRATE! – How does the nominee represent a joyful celebration of the LGBTQIA+ community in the Greater Rockford Area?

• REMEMBER! – How does the nominee honor and preserve the history and legacy of the LGBTQIA+ community?

• UNITE! – How has the nominee brought people together, fostering solidarity and creating inclusive spaces?

Nominations will be accepted until 11:59 p.m. on Friday, February 28, 2026. The Honoree(s) will be announced in spring 2026 at a special reception. Community members can submit nominations online at www.rockfordareapride.org/2026-nominations.

"We look forward to learning about the inspiring individuals who make our community strong, vibrant, and proud," the committee added. "This is an opportunity to shine a light on those who have paved the way and continue to build a more inclusive future for all."

For more information about the nomination process or the 2026 Rockford Area Pride Parade, please visit www.rockfordareapride.org or contact the Rockford Area Pride Committee.

About Rockford Area Pride: Rockford Area Pride is dedicated to celebrating, honoring, and uniting the LGBTQIA+ community in the Greater Rockford Area through events, advocacy, and community engagement. The annual Pride Parade brings together thousands of community members in a joyful celebration of diversity, acceptance, and love.

More information on the Rockford Area Pride Committee, the annual Pride Parade, and past Honorary Grand Marshals can be found on the Committee's website, www.RockfordAreaPride.org.