Remembering Chilli Pepper

Chilli Pepper, a legendary figure in Chicago's drag scene and a staunch advocate for LGBTQ+ rights, passed away peacefully at her home on September 11 after a long battle with colon cancer. Known for her performances at The Baton Show Lounge, where she was a staple for nearly four decades, she gained national recognition as one of the first trans women to address AIDS awareness during the 1980s. Chilli was crowned Miss Gay Chicago in 1974 and became the first Miss Continental in 1980, carving a path for future drag artists. Her appearances on major talk shows, including The Oprah Winfrey Show, helped raise visibility for the trans community at a time when such discussions were often ignored. Friends and admirers remember her as a beacon of courage, authenticity, and joy in the LGBTQ+ movement. Chilli Pepper's legacy as a performer and activist will continue to inspire many in the community and beyond.