Each June, Pride Month celebrates the culture and contributions of the LGBTQ+ community and offers us the valuable opportunity to share stories of acceptance, resilience, and love. It’s also a time to recognize the progress that has been made toward equality for the LGBTQ+ community while acknowledging the work that still lies ahead.

“Pride Month is an opportunity to reflect on those that made rights possible today,” said James Huffer, a Wintrust Mortgage loan officer and member of the LGBTQ+ community. “It’s also a way to celebrate the diversity of our community.”

James has been with Wintrust for seven years at North Shore Community Bank & Trust, a branch of Wintrust Bank charter, in Skokie, IL. In his role helping prospective homeowners of all kinds secure the right mortgage, he values each and every opportunity to uplift and serve a diverse population of customers as part alongside engaged and committed team members.

“It’s great helping people in my community realize their dreams with Wintrust Mortgage,” Huffer said. “Knowing I work at a company that promotes diversity in all communities makes it a great place to work and a company I am proud to promote.”

James regularly volunteers his time at Open Hand Grocery Land, frequently supports the Center on Halsted, and serves as a proud member of the LGBT Chamber of Commerce Illinois. He takes pride in doing his part to ensure the continued progress with LGBTQ+ rights and equality in Chicagoland and beyond.

“It’s important to me to step up to the plate when asked to help the community, volunteer on a weekly basis, and also be an advocate for those without a voice,” Huffer said.

While it’s wonderful having a whole month dedicated to Pride, empowerment is a year-round commitment. James wants the perennial nature of Pride and the fight for equality to be remembered by all throughout each year.

“I would like others to remember the struggle to achieve equal rights, the desire to continue to fight for those that do not have rights, and to enjoy that we have a place at the table,” Huffer said.

Wintrust celebrates the LGBTQ+ community, particularly the hardworking team members, like James, going above and beyond to make a difference both internally and externally. They make us better in every way. Happy Pride Month!