LGBTQ+ middle schoolers, allies can find friends at DeKalb event
DEKALB — Middle-schoolers and recent middle school graduates, who identify as LGBTQ+ or as allies, are invited to the Rainbow Inclusivity Alliance Tuesday evening. The monthly gathering, happening every second Tuesday, is a “safe and inclusive place” offering games, activities and conversation with others. Snacks are also provided. The free program, which requires no registration, takes place at 5:30 p.m. every second Tuesday of the month in the Nancy D. Castle Collaboration Studio, DeKalb Public Library, 309 Oak St.
Immigrant experiences take center stage Wednesday
ROCKFORD — Immigrants will share what it’s been like to relocate to the Rockford area, at “Listen To Us: True Stories of the Immigrant Experience” Wednesday evening. The presentation also features immigrant youth performing music. The event is presented by five immigrant aid groups: the Coalition of Latino Leaders, Eliminate Racism 815, Rockford Urban Ministries, Table of Grace, and Welcome With Dignity 815. The free gathering is 6:30 p.m. at Good Shepherd YMCA, 1829 N. Rockton Ave.
Racial, community healing the focus of 'Culture of Belonging Academy'
ROCKFORD — There’s still room to sign up for two days of racial and community healing taking place Thursday and Friday at Rock Valley College. The “Culture of Belonging Academy Summer 2026 Kickoff” starts 8:30 a.m. Thursday and features numerous discussions and a keynote speech by author and public speaker Terrell Strayhorn, head of the Do Good Work Consulting Group. The free event is funded by the Illinois Department of Health and Human Services’ Healing Illinois program, devoted to projects that help heal through “narrative, dialogue and place.” You can attend both days, or you can sign up just for the noon awards luncheon Friday. Register here for the conference, held in Rock Valley College’s Physical Education Center, 3301 N. Mulford Rd.
