City unveils AIDS Garden Chicago in Lakeview East

CHICAGO (CBS) -- They are calling it a "park with purpose". On Thursday, Illinois leaders gathered in lake view to cut the ribbon on the long-awaited "AIDS Garden Chicago".

The two and half-acre garden in the park of Lincoln Park is a tribute to those who died from the disease -- and those still fighting it. CBS 2's Marissa Parra was there for the ceremony. 

It's a celebration of how far we've come to who all spoke to the duality of what this garden really means.

At once, both a somber reminder of the history of HIV/AIDS in our country and our city as well as a celebration of how far we've come.  

This is meant to be a place of healing. There were performances by the Chicago's Gay Men's Chorus as they opened the day with a number from the musical "RENT".

There was spoken word. We heard from Mayor Lori Lightfoot, the governor, Ald. Tom Tunney (44th), and so many others who shared their own experiences living with HIV/AIDS.

The garden has been a years-long project. They've been working on the garden since 2019.

Three years later they chose this month to unveil it because it's the start of pride month, and they chose this area here just south of Belmont Avenue because for decades it's been a beloved gathering place for the city's gay community, since the 60s.

We heard about the scars left behind from the height of the pandemic, decades ago when there was such a stigma that came with HIV/AIDS — this was a time people were losing jobs, health insurance, friends, and support -- all for being HIV positive

That is why you see that green statue in the middle. it's a tribute to an artist named Keith Haring who spent his life fighting against the stigma.

There are signs with QR codes around the park where you can listen to first-hand stories of the journey of HIV in this country and hear from people living with it today.

You can come out at any time and see it for yourself — right along the lakefront just south of Belmont Harbor. 

In:
• Chicago
• HIV / AIDS