Changing the Narrative: African Americans in Evanston

Established in 1863, the City of Evanston benefited economically and socially from the contribution of its African American residents—a fact often diminished in, if not excluded entirely from, historical records and narratives.

The City of Evanston recently supported a resolution that was developed by the Shorefront Legacy Center to recognize African American Heritage Sites and the role of African Americans in shaping the Evanston community. While many buildings have not been afforded the formal protection of historic preservation efforts, the community is now committed to recognizing this cultural legacy with historic markers and education.

Dino Robinson and Kris Hartzell will explore some of these sites and discuss new ways to establish and recognize their historical significance beyond established norms.

This conversation is co-convened by the Evanston History Center, an Open House Chicago 2020 community partner.