Illinois Humanities hosts river confluence conference in Cairo

The gathering was organized in partnership with Illinois Humanities, a statewide non-profit. Gabrielle Lyon, executive director of Illinois Humanities, said the event aimed to connect people to Cairo's living history and inspire them to preserve it.

"It's such a delight to be back in Cairo," Lyon said. "I love history, I love heritage... and also just the chance to stand inside these extraordinary buildings that carry so many people's stories... it's thrilling."

Lyon emphasized that preservation efforts, such as those led by the Cairo Historical Preservation Project, are not about freezing the past but about helping communities understand who they are and who they want to become.

She praised the city's geography, where major rivers meet, and its role as a crossroads of American history. From the Lewis and Clark expedition to the Trail of Tears.

"It's the only place in the world that holds these stories, these histories, these artifacts," Lyon said. "When I think about Cairo and what makes it so special, I think of three things... The geography, the confluence of these rivers... and the diversity of nature."

Despite recent cuts to funding for cultural programs, Lyon stressed the importance of collaboration in local initiatives to keep history alive. She also highlighted upcoming events, such as Magnolia Day, which gives residents opportunities to stay connected to the land's heritage.

"We eat together, we sing, we make music, we might pray together, but it's all in the interest of being connected by the power of place," Lyon said.

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