In partnership with twelve Illinois communities, Community Conversations will explore local history through facilitated conversations and humanities-driven activities that help us center curiosity and active listening; encourage us to embrace fresh perspectives; and remind us of the wealth we have and gain from remaining connected.

The focus this cycle is “History Belongs to All of Us,” marking the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence and the founding of the United States. Together, we will explore treasures from Illinois archives and collections to uncover how the people who lived in Illinois before, during, and after the founding of the United States responded to this world-changing document. While Illinois would not be part of the United States until 1783, it was diverse with European immigrants from mostly France and Britain living alongside Native Kaskaskia, Peoria, Michigamea, Moingwena, Tamoroa, and Cahokia tribes. Enslaved Fulani, Ashanti, Yoruba, and Mandinka people -- immigrants against their will -- labored in salt mines, agriculture, and service in different parts of the territory even through early statehood. In this way, Illinois reflected the complex history of the nation itself as the Declaration of Independence and its influence spread across the globe.