Woodstock Pride Brings AIDS Memorial Quilt to McHenry County for First Time During PrideFest Weekend
Woodstock, IL — May 15, 2025 — In a moving tribute to lives lost and a powerful reminder of the resilience of the LGBTQ+ community, Woodstock Pride is honored to announce that a portion of the internationally renowned AIDS Memorial Quilt will be on display in Woodstock, Illinois during PrideFest Weekend, June 13–15.
This marks the first time in history that any section of the AIDS Memorial Quilt will be exhibited in Woodstock or McHenry County, offering a rare and profound opportunity for reflection, education, and community connection.
The Quilt will be on display at the Unity Spiritual Center of Woodstock, located at 225 West Calhoun Street, just a short walk from the historic Woodstock Square. Viewing is free and open to the public during the following times:
● Friday, June 13: 5 PM – 8 PM (Reception from 6 PM – 8 PM)
● Saturday, June 14: 10 AM – 6 PM
● Sunday, June 15: 11:30 AM – 6 PM
Woodstock Pride is deeply grateful for the partnership with the Unity Spiritual Center of Woodstock, whose support has made this historic event possible.
The AIDS Memorial Quilt began in 1985, when activist and artist Cleve Jones stitched the first panel to honor a friend lost to AIDS. What began as a single act of remembrance has grown into a staggering 50,000+ panels, memorializing over 110,000 individuals. The Quilt spans more than 1.2 million square feet, making it the largest community art project in the world.
Throughout the ongoing AIDS crisis, more than 700,000 lives have been lost in the United States to HIV/AIDS. Today, HIV is on the rise, particularly among young people, communities of color, and in the Southern United States. Quilt displays raise awareness about the history of AIDS while also helping communities understand current prevention strategies, treatment options, and resources available locally.
Sharing the Quilt’s powerful stories of activism, resilience, hope, and remembrance helps connect the history of HIV/AIDS to the important issues impacting our nation today. The Quilt can be viewed in its entirety, and individuals can search for names and panels at www.aidsmemorial.org/quilt.
“The arrival of the AIDS Memorial Quilt in McHenry County is not just historic — it's deeply meaningful,” said Melissa McMahon, Woodstock PrideFest Coordinator. “It reminds us of a past we must never forget, honors those we've lost, and calls us to action, compassion, and continued learning.”
The HIV/AIDS epidemic was a defining moment in LGBTQ+ history — one marked by unimaginable grief, profound resilience, and enduring activism. Bringing a piece of the Quilt to our community is an opportunity to reflect on that legacy, foster healing, and celebrate how far we've come — and how far we still have to go.
For more information about the Woodstock PrideFest Parade, festival and weekend of events, and to stay updated on the latest news and announcements, please visit woodstockilpride.com or follow us on facebook and instagram.
**About the Woodstock Pride** Woodstock Pride is a community organization in McHenry County, IL, committed to supporting LGBTQIA+ individuals, families, and businesses. Their mission centers on promoting diversity, cultural integration, and self-celebration within the LGBTQIA+ community. With a focus on inclusivity, they aim to provide a supportive environment that fosters trust and relief for all members of the local LGBTQIA+ community..
For media inquiries, interviews, or more information, please contact:
Melissa McMahon
Woodstock Pride Board Member and PrideFest Coordinator
Woodstock Pride
847-767-1802
Melissapride1@gmail.com
Woodstockilpride.com