On March 2, El Rescate Supportive Independent Living Program celebrated its one-year anniversary. El Rescate is one of only two programs in the nation that specifically serves LGBTQ youth, which make up a disproportionately high percentage of homeless youth, according to the Huffington Post.
However, this is not the only feature that makes El Rescate unique. Unlike other programs of its kind, El Rescate is an integral part of the Puerto Rican community of Humboldt Park and is one of many organizations that was brought about by the foresight and initiative of the Puerto Rican Cultural Center.
"Besides the staff and residents at El Rescate, I feel as if we have a world of support here in the community. Everyone is so friendly and willing to help one another. And even though I am not Puerto Rican myself, the community embraced me as one of their own without question," said Steven "Blue" Palatty, a resident at El Rescate.
The celebration started off at Vida/SIDA with an introduction of the staff and residents and a tour of the residence. "The place feels very homey," said Johanna Martinez, a college student at Columbia College of Chicago. "It has a little bit of everything a home consists of."
The introduction and tour was then followed by the main event, which was held at Batey Urbano. The event started with a performance from El Rescate resident Mario Mundo, also known as "Sophia Skye"; heartfelt testimonials from several residents of the program; and performances from poets Michael Rodriguez and the modern-day renaissance woman Caridad De la Luz, aka "La Bruja."
"The testimonials from the residents were tear-jerking," said resident Zenaida Lopez. "I was amazed with their courage to talk about their predicament, their sexuality and personal struggles. It reminds me that the work I do is worthwhile and has a real purpose."
The performances were followed by a presentation from Dr. Jose Lopez, executive director of the Puerto Rican Cultural Center and longtime advocate of the gay community. He spoke briefly about the significance of safe and supportive spaces for the youth and how we must continue to struggle for a more tolerant and accepting society.
Among the 100 attendees was Mona Noriega, commissioner on human relations for the city of Chicago; Sergeant Lori Cooper, commanding officer for the Special Activities Section of the Chicago Police Department; and Lair Scott, chair for Queer Fest America and a longtime supporter of El Rescate.
