Tag: slavery

the official flag of Juneteenth

Organizers In Champaign County Prepare For Juneteenth

CHAMPAIGN – Organizers throughout Champaign County say Juneteenth is about history, but also about bringing attention to systemic issues that the African American community still faces. Juneteenth, which falls on June 19, is also now an official state holiday, after Gov. JB Pritzker signed legislation on Wednesday. Rantoul resident Debbra Sweat was having coffee with

Rename Building Named For Stephen A. Douglas, Says EIU Committee

 CHARLESTON – A committee at Eastern Illinois University in Charleston voted unanimously (6-0) this week to recommend that a building named for Stephen A. Douglas be renamed, because of the 19th century politician’s ties to slavery. EIU’s University Naming Committee surveyed the campus and community about renaming Douglas Hall. The four-story dormitory, and its adjoining

Stories Of The Enslaved In Illinois

One was sold away from her children. Another was freed and became a businessman. Others were freed only to be kidnapped and sold back into slavery….