History Belongs to All of Us: Opening Dialogue
When
Apr 16, 2026
5:30pm–7:30pm
Cost
Free
The opening dialogue for the series focuses on the Declaration of Independence, the founding document of the United States. Through reading and conversation, participants will be reacquainted with the Declaration and consider how it asserts a form of government intended to empower a free and equal citizenry in contrast to a tyrannical monarchy.
This opening conversation introduces the themes of the series and invites participants to reflect on how national and local anniversaries shape our understanding of history.
Pizza supper served at 5:30 p.m., followed by conversation and dessert at 6:30 p.m.
This is the first event in the "History Belongs to All of Us" conversation series presented in partnership with the Western Illinois Museum. Save the date for the remaining events in the series on May 28, June 18, and July 16.
For more information, please visit wimuseum.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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