Join us on the 3rd floor from Monday, February 2, through Saturday, February 28, to celebrate Black History Month and explore local history through the Reclaiming the Narrative: Restoring Black Voices to the Story of Joliet special exhibit.
African Americans have called the Joliet region home before it was incorporated in 1852. They built up the community, found jobs and enjoyed life in the Des Plaines River Valley. Despite this long history, the Black community has often been on the periphery of historical narratives. As a way to expand the scope of history, this exhibit highlights four African American organizations that contribute to the region’s diversity.
This exhibit, created by Lewis University in collaboration with community partners, was funded by the Chicago-based Gaylord and Dorothy Donnelley Foundation in line with their Broadening Narratives initiative. The exhibit is geared toward sixth-graders and older. You can also view the free online collection of materials.
Be sure to join us all month long for more Black History Month events for all ages!