GLRF thanks community of Crystal Lake

The 2006 Chicago Gay Games was not without controversy, what with dual gay multi-sport events being hosted just one month apart in Chicago and Montreal, in July and August (Chicago Gay Games and Montreal Outgames).

However, rowing became the greatest source of controversy when the Chicago Gay Games organizers acted on the recommendation of GLRF to host the rowing event at Crystal Lake. The decision created a firestorm of controversy leading up to the regatta, with local Christian conservatives loudly protesting the decision at public city meetings. The resulting media story went nationwide as the Chicago sports organizers repeatedly attempted to reassure local residents that the City of Crystal Lake would not turn into some naked scene of debauchery and that children swimming in the lake would not be "infected" or "turned."

On the day of the event, additional police were on hand to separate local protesters as athletes, spectators, and volunteers arrived to participate.

GLRF published an open letter to the community following the regatta, thanking residents, the Crystal Lake Rowing Club, and all the public agencies who worked to support the event. Read it here: GLRF_thks_Crystal_Lake.pdf