2026 Envisioning Justice Statewide Convening
Beyond the Walls: Transcending Confinement
When
May
13
–
May 14, 2026
4:00pm–5:00pm
Cost
Free.
Registration is required.
Beyond the Walls: Transcending Confinement
The Envisioning Justice Statewide Convening is an opportunity to recharge and connect with an extraordinary community of artists, humanists, and organizers working across the state to reimagine the future of our justice system. Join us as we examine the spaces and places of confinement and their effects on individuals and communities. Together, we will examine the effects of confinement and explore how individuals navigate their constraints to liberate their mind and spirit.
This in-person gathering will feature dynamic speakers, experiential sessions, and facilitated group dialogue meant to ground Envisioning Justice partners in their work, foster connections, and exemplify the healing power of the arts and humanities in our collective action toward justice.
Together, we will celebrate, highlight, and lift the work of our partners from across the state.
Conference Schedule
Wednesday, May 13
- Check-in/Registration: 4:00 p.m.
- More details to come
Thursday, May 14
- Doors Open: 8:45 a.m.
- More details to come
- Wednesday night only hotel stay check-out: 11:00 a.m.
- Thursday night only hotel stay check-in: 4:00 p.m.
- Closing Remarks: 5:00 p.m.
- Optional Activity: 6:00 p.m.
Friday, May 15
- Hotel check-out: 11:00 a.m.
Food and drinks will be provided by Conn's Catering & Events.
More About...
Travel and Lodging
TRAVELING
A travel stipend will be given to all attendees outside the Springfield area.
LODGING
A limited number of hotel rooms are available for our out-of-town participants (those traveling 65 miles or more to the venue) on a first-come, first-served basis at the President Abraham Lincoln Springfield - DoubleTree by Hilton. You must register for the convening no later than April 22, 2026, to have a chance at one of these rooms.
NOTES:
- When checking into the hotel, you will need to present a credit card for incidentals.
- Check-in time is 4:00 p.m. and Check-out time is 11:00 a.m.
- For attendees paying for their own rooms, please budget approximately $200 per night for lodging.
Parking and Directions
Parking
The hotel offers parking for $7/day in the garage 20 ft away from the building. The entire main level of the parking garage is comprised of accessible spaces. The parking lot is open 24 hours. Note: Parking at the hotel will be covered by your travel stipend.
Learn more about Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum parking here.
Accessibility
Hotel
There are no steps at the entrance, the elevator, the ballroom, the bar, or the restrooms. All of these areas are fully wheelchair accessible. There are two accessible restrooms conveniently located on the main floor. The restaurant offers flexible seating and the lobby is fully accessible. The entire main level of the parking garage, which is 20 ft away from the building, is comprised of accessible spaces.
Convening Venue
Details to come.
If you require accommodations to participate in this event fully, please contact Elise Pakiela at events@ilhumanities.org at least 72 hours before the event.
About the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum
The Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum is the heart of the Lincoln legacy. Dive into the life and legacy of one of America's most iconic leaders. Explore exhibits, lectures, and exclusive interviews to uncover the remarkable story of Abraham Lincoln.
Follow @LincolnMuseum: Website | Instagram | Facebook | YouTube
Conn's Catering & Events
Conn's Catering & Events is part of Conn's Hospitality Group, Inc., which began with Roy Conn and his family restaurant in Palmyra, Illinois. Conn's Hospitality Group, Inc. now includes Court, Karen, Casey & Adam Conn, who have grown the family business to include Inn at 835, Obed & Isaac’s Microbrewery & Eatery (Springfield & Peoria), 7th Street Cidery, Wm. Van's Coffeehouse, Elkhart Hill Farm & Vineyard, and Elkhart Station. Each business is located in a different historic home or building in either downtown Springfield, Peoria, or Elkhart, Illinois, that has been lovingly and carefully restored by the Conn family. Learn more at connshg.com.
About Envisioning Justice
Since 2017, Envisioning Justice has created free public arts and humanities programs in partnership with communities and people affected by the carceral system and provided grant funding for individuals, nonprofits, and collectives. Together, we foster conversation and empower diverse perspectives to gain statewide momentum toward ending mass incarceration.
Register for This Event
Contact
Suite 650, 125 South Clark St.
Chicago, IL 60603
312.422.5580 312.374.6787 Fax
Illinois Humanities is supported in part by the National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH) and the Illinois General Assembly [through the Illinois Arts Council], as well as by contributions from individuals, foundations, and corporations.
Illinois Humanities respects the privacy of its audiences and will at no time sell or distribute personal information to any party not directly affiliated with Illinois Humanities and its programs.
Any views, findings, conclusions, or recommendations expressed by speakers, program participants, or audiences do not necessarily reflect those of the NEH, Illinois Humanities, our partnering organizations, or our funders.
© Copyright 2026 Illinois Humanities