The Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago (MWRD) marked the start of Pride Month with a flag-raising ceremony honoring LGBTQ+ pride and visibility.

The annual raising of the Pride flag at the MWRD’s Barbara J. McGowan Main Office Building and at all seven of MWRD’s water reclamation plants symbolizes the MWRD’s ongoing commitment to inclusion, equity, and respect for all employees and communities, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity. Watch the video.

“Pride Month is a time to reflect on the progress the LGBTQ+ community has made and to honor the ongoing fight for equality and inclusion,” said MWRD President Kari K. Steele. “At the MWRD, we are committed to having a workplace where everyone is valued, seen, and respected.”

The MWRD has a long history of history of engaging in outreach across all industries and business sectors and promoting equitable policies. The MWRD has hosted annual Pride Month events since 2019, reinforcing its efforts to cultivate a diverse and inclusive workplace culture and to support LGBTQ+ rights throughout the region. And, in July of 2020, the MWRD Board of Commissioners approved two policies to promote opportunities for small business enterprises owned and operated by both members of the LGBTQ+ community and persons with disabilities. 

Committed to providing opportunities and building on these policies, Chairman of Finance Marcelino Garcia has led LGBTQ business roundtables for the MWRD and its partners, and closed with a heartfelt message of the importance of standing up for equality every day of the year. 

“At the MWRD, we know that protecting public health and the environment is work that’s strengthened by diversity and inclusion,” said Chairman Garcia. “Pride Month is a time to celebrate, but our commitment to equity and visibility for the LGBTQ+ community extends beyond June—it's something we uphold every single month. Let’s treat each other with kindness, acceptance, and compassion.”

Commissioners also reflected on the personal significance of Pride Month and the importance of representation in public service.

“As a Black trans woman and commissioner, I am proud to stand with MWRD in raising the Pride flag and lifting up the voices of our LGBTQ+ community,” said Commissioner Precious Brady-Davis. “Pride is both a celebration and a call to action—a reminder that visibility, dignity, and equity must be at the heart of public service.”

The MWRD float will also appear in the Chicago Pride Parade on Sunday, June 29, which kicks off at 11 a.m. at Sheridan and Broadway. Participating in the parade reflects MWRD’s continued commitment to inclusion, unity, and environmental stewardship.