In a statement, the Lighthouse Foundation noted that the Northalsted Business Alliance ( NBA ) has terminated its relationship with Walsh Security.
This decision followed Center On Halsted's termination of its contract with Walsh after pressure from the Foundation earlier this year.
"With this announcement, we have effectively rooted out Walsh Security's stranglehold on Boystown," Lighthouse Foundation Executive Director Jamie Frazier said. "The Northalsted Business Alliance's decision to end its relationship with Walsh Security is a victory for Black LGBTQ+ community organizing.
"We thank all of our white accomplices that joined us in our petition, protests, and organizing meetings to root this firm out of not only The Center on Halsted but also now the Northalsted Business Alliance. Together we secured a win for racial equity and justice."
Frazier added, "We looked into numerous instances of racism in Boystown, chief among the discussion items was Walsh's employment by The Center and The Northalsted Business Alliance. Past incidents involving Walsh Security's owner and other employees raise questions about their ability to interact with People of Color equitably and respectfully.
"We thank Northalsted Business Alliance Board President Ramesh Ariyanayakam for doing the hard work of racial equity. Lighthouse Foundation learned from NBA Press Relations lead, Jen Gordon, that Walsh's removal is part of 'a much larger effort that is being undertaken.' We have asked both Jen and Ramesh to partner with Lighthouse Foundation in this more significant effort for racial justice in Boystown."