On this day in queer history: September 24, 2020 — Chicago’s historic gay neighborhood of Boystown officially adopted a new name: Northalsted.
The Northalsted Business Alliance announced the change after community discussions about inclusivity. While many businesses in the area continue to cater primarily to gay men, the shift signaled a desire to embrace and reflect the full diversity of the LGBTQ community.
The debate around the name highlighted how queer spaces evolve over time — balancing tradition, visibility, and the push for broader inclusion.

















