History Belongs to All of Us: The U.S. and Haitian Declarations of Independence
When
May 21, 2026
6:30pm–7:30pm
Cost
Free. Registration is preferred.
Walk-ins are welcome.
Join us for a conversation about the similarities and differences between Haiti and the United States Declaration of Independence
Featuring Haitian scholar William Leslie Balan-Gaubert, this event offers an engaging exploration of the Haitian and United States Declarations of Independence. Through an interactive discussion, participants will examine both documents and consider the ideas, historical contexts, and lasting impacts surrounding the founding of each nation. The conversation is designed to spark thoughtful dialogue and encourage deeper reflection.
Light bites will be served.
This is the first event in the "History Belongs to All of Us" conversation series presented in partnership with The Haitian American Museum of Chicago. Save the date for the remaining events in the series on June 25 and July 30.
For more information, please visit hamoc.org.
More About...
Community Conversations: History Belongs to All of Us
“History Belongs to All of Us,” part of Illinois Humanities' Community Conversations program, explores 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.
Contact
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