Chicago Gay Crusader was a periodical about gay issues in Chicago and the United States. It was created in 1973 by Michael Bergeron and William B. Kelley, becoming defunct in 1976.[2][3][4][5][6][7] The first issue in May 1973 marked Chicago's "first successful attempt at producing a serious gay newspaper", following another paper that only lasted two issues.[8]Richard W. Pfeiffer wrote a monthly column for the newspaper.[9]
In 1974, Lavender Woman reported that the Crusader had a large free circulation.[10] The paper operated a gay switchboard, 929-HELP, from Bergeron's basement.[10]
In June 1976, Philadelphia Gay News reported that the Crusader would fold after issue 27, except for an annual wrap-up edition.[11]
