The Declaration of Independence is one of the founding documents that shaped American society, professing the equality of all men and their access to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. However, these unalienable rights outlined in the document and the presumption of equality were not extended to all.

This Fourth of July, join us for a free virtual event featuring Chicago civic leaders Mayor Lori Lightfoot, Eboo Patel, Jahmal Cole, Linda Tortolero, and Laura Washington. Hear their thoughts on this history and its undeniable impact on the current social climate and the continued struggles for equality and inclusion. Mark your calendar.

On July 4, 1776, the Declaration of Independence was adopted, signaling independence from Great Britain and asserting “all men are created equal.” However, this equality was denied to those enslaved and of African descent—they would have to wait nearly one hundred years for freedom. 

Watch our virtual program “On American Independence and Freedom: The Juneteenth Story” as CHM assistant curators Julius L. Jones and Brittany Hutchinson and Field Foundation fellow Angela Tate discuss the legacy of Juneteenth, its connections to Chicago, and the importance of remembering the story. Watch now.