2026 marks an incredible milestone—20 years since the first Girls Rock! Chicago summer camp. As we celebrate this anniversary, we are also stepping into the next chapter with a new, more inclusive name: We Rock! Chicago.
Our organization and work has always been rooted in efforts to advance gender equity in music and challenge societal expectations of who plays music, takes up space, and gets loud. Over the years, our community, practices, and language grew to include and celebrate trans and gender-expansive folks of all identities and it became clear that our name needed to reflect that evolution.
This change represents our commitment to creating an inclusive, affirming space and opportunities for Chicago’s youth—particularly those of marginalized gender identities—to express themselves through music. In this next chapter of our history, we seek to strengthen our mission, expand our impact, and welcome more individuals into our community.
We’re thrilled to have you join us on this journey.