Loved ones gathered on Saturday to honor the life of Rick Garcia, a prominent LGBTQ+ activist in Chicago who passed away on January 12, 2024, at the age of 69. The memorial took place at Saint Mary of the Lake Catholic Church on the North Side of the city, where friends and family came together to pay their respects and celebrate Garcia’s significant contributions to LGBTQ+ rights.
Garcia was instrumental in shaping Chicago’s human rights landscape. His advocacy was pivotal in the passage of the city’s human rights ordinance in the 1980s, which prohibited discrimination based on sexual orientation. According to Michael McHale, former president of Equality Illinois, “Rick made a lot of contacts and helped us pass the gay civil rights bill in 2005, which was one of Rick’s many accomplishments.” His efforts not only influenced local legislation but also paved the way for similar laws at the county and state levels, expanding protections for LGBTQ+ individuals.
During the service, Garcia’s friends shared memories of his tenacious spirit and his unwavering commitment to advocacy. “I want them to remember him for who he was, which was a tenacious, never-give-up activist, who was fantastic with the press,” McHale added, emphasizing Garcia’s ability to connect with the media and rally support for important causes.
Garcia’s faith as a devout Catholic also played a role in his activism. He often challenged the notion that religious beliefs should prevent support for LGBTQ+ rights. McHale recalled, “When people would use the excuse, ‘I can’t vote for this, I’m Catholic,’ Rick would say, ‘Well, I’m Catholic too. You can vote for this.'” His approach encouraged dialogue and understanding within religious communities regarding LGBTQ+ issues.
His impact extended beyond legislation. Julio Rodriguez, co-founder and president of ALMA Chicago, reflected on Garcia’s mentorship, stating, “I remember he would always just say, ‘Girl, never let them keep you outside, because we all have a seat at the table, even if you have to be the one that drags it there.'” This philosophy resonated deeply with many in the community, inspiring them to continue pushing for equality.
Garcia’s best friend, Richard Streetman, expressed the profound influence Garcia had on his life. “As a gay man, and as a friend, there’ll never be another like him, because he was built in a different era, and he made it possible for me to be who I am. And there’s a little piece of him in my heart forever,” Streetman said, highlighting the personal connections Garcia cultivated throughout his life.
The memorial service not only celebrated Garcia’s achievements but also served as a reminder of the ongoing struggle for LGBTQ+ rights. His legacy continues to inspire new generations of activists, ensuring that his vision for equality and inclusiveness will endure. In their farewell, friends and family reaffirmed their commitment to carrying on Garcia’s mission, promising to keep fighting for a more equitable future for all.
