Chicago House recognized Sidetrack co-owners Art Johnston and Pepe Peña Sunday, May 1, with the Chicago House Spirit Award in honor of their 40+ years of advocacy, activism, and support for communities impacted by HIV/AIDS.
“Art and Pep have been at the forefront of civil rights activism in Chicago and Illinois for more than 40 year as bar owners, progressive leaders, and partners. Long before government officials acknowledged HIV/AIDS, Art and Pep’s bar, Sidetrack The Video Bar, was one of the few places where LGBTQ+ individuals could gather and find community.
Thank you, Art and Pep, for all you continue to on behalf of LGBTQ+ communities.” Chicago House