History Belongs to All of Us: The Shape of Belonging
Stories of Arrival, Memory, & South Asian American
When
Jul 18, 2026
2:00pm–4:00pm
Cost
Free.
Registration is required.
Join us for an afternoon of film, reflection, and dialogue as we explore how individual journeys become part of our collective history, starting with the premiere of a new documentary featuring personal migration stories and reflections shared by South Asian community members in Chicago.
Through intimate interviews and firsthand accounts, the film explores themes of migration, identity, family, memory, and belonging. Together, these stories reveal the diverse experiences that have helped shape both South Asian communities and the broader American narrative.
Following the screening, audience members are invited to participate in a community conversation on oral history, storytelling, and the importance of preserving personal narratives for future generations.
This is the last event in the "History Belongs to All of Us" Community Conversations series presented in partnership with South Asia Institute.
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.
South Asia Institute
South Asia Institute (SAI) is dedicated to cultivating the art and culture of South Asia and its diaspora through curated exhibitions, innovative programs, and educational initiatives. SAI engages diverse communities in enriching creative experiences, supports artistic production by emerging and established artists, and fosters cultural appreciation for the South Asian diaspora. SAI brings the culture to life!
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Contact
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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.
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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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