History Belongs to All of Us: Northwest Ordinance
When
Apr 30, 2026
3:30pm–5:00pm
Cost
Free.
Registration is required.
Explore with us the founding of the United States through the lens of local history via this five-program conversation series.
Each program creates space for shared conversation, activity, learning, and connection through the joy of investigating history in its rawest form: the primary document and artifact.
Snacks will be included at each program.
This is the first event in the "History Belongs to All of Us" Community Conversations series presented in partnership with the Naper Settlement. RSVP for the remaining events in the series on May 16, June 27, July 3, and July 25.
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
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.
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