“I was like we’re doing this. Let’s get all my drag siblings together and try to make a change,” they said.

The march brought together thousands of people from the North Side to support the Black Lives Matter movement. MaMa is now organizing another Sunday afternoon walk from Belmont and Halsted.

“We are still shot in the streets. We are still treated like second class citizens and now people are paying attention. There really seems to be hope,” they said.

This year, organizers are pushing to cut the Chicago Police Department’s budget and invest more in social services and community programs. They also want police officers in uniform to be banned during pride festivities.

Organizers said it was important for members of the LGBTQI + community to speak out about racial injustices.

“We have always been the trailblazers. We have always been at the forefront. We are the ones who make things happen and who make the change. We are also extremely creative,” said MaMa.

Tatyana Chante, who is one of the organizers of Drag March for Change, said change takes time.

“I hope people will realize that last year was not just a one-off event,” he said. “It’s a continuation. It’s going to take work.”

MaMa said the drag is not necessary for the march and all allies are welcome to participate.