The Bud Billiken Parade, a cherished tradition on the South Side of Chicago, may not feature the Chi-Town Cheerleaders this summer. Despite being a part of the parade for over twenty years, the cheerleading team faces a setback as their insurance company refuses to cover them.
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For the last 25 years, the Chi-Town Cats Cheerleaders have performed in the Bud Billiken Parade. Chi-Town Cheerleaders’ head coach, Paulette Franklin, says:, “It emphasizes education, leadership, and learning, and that’s something that we teach here. And that’s why they want to be in the parade.”
Franklin said their talent may not be seen in the parade this year because their insurance company decided not to cover them for the event.
“I was looking forward to starting off the year with the Bud, and it’s kind of disappointing,” Chi-Town cheerleader Saniya Moore said.
TEAM MAY NOT PERFORM AFTER 25 YEARS
Even if they obtain a new insurance policy, the Cats might need to decide whether to pay rent to remain in their building or participate in the parade.
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In a statement, HDI Global, the team’s insurance company, stated, “Due to our principles regarding Client Confidentiality (neither confirming nor denying) as well as not discussing individual insurance policies publicly, we must refrain from comment.”
The team was granted an extension by the parade director to obtain their insurance until Tuesday.
