It’s not an exaggeration to say that every member of Northwestern’s queer community has been impacted by the life of Art Johnston and his partner Pepe Mena in some way. They co-own a little Chicago watering hole called Sidetrack. With eight storefronts and multiple levels, Sidetrack is regarded as one of the top gay bars in the country. 

In addition to being a business owner, Art has also dedicated his life to activism. He was instrumental in a 1988 ban on discrimination based on sexual orientation as well as a 1993 passage of Chicago’s and Cook County’s Human Rights ordinance. A documentary about the life of Art and Pepe is currently under development. 

With the intent of accurately depict historical events, episode includes graphic and potentially triggering language. 

Interested in updates and exclusive invitations from Northwestern’s global LGBTQ+ affinity club? NUPAC is free to join! 

Support the show