Illinois Humanities

Illinois Humanities is proud to present Damon Locks’ world-renowned, Black Monument Ensemble, live at Garfield Park Conservatory & Gardens on June 24, 2026🎶

2026 marks the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, providing a unique opportunity to reflect on the complex legacy of our country’s founding.

In partnership with the Garfield Park Conservatory Alliance, Chicago Park District, Jane M. Saks/Project&, and Empty Bottle, join Damon Locks’ Black Monument Ensemble as it returns to Garfield Park Conservatory to deliver a timely and powerful performance that interweaves Black histories and speculative futures, prompting us all to contemplate where we are today.

Be part of the experience, get your tickets today at: ilhumanities.org/BME

Illinois Humanities is partnering with the Illinois America 250 and StoryCorps Studios to present Illinois Voices 250, a statewide time capsule capturing stories from all 102 Illinois counties in honor of America’s 250th anniversary.

From shared wisdom to hopes and concerns, this initiative documents our moment in time through a diverse, representative record of who Illinoisans are today, while inviting reflection on our past and aspirations for the future.

Submit your online recording today or learn more about our Community Recording Days at ilhumanities.org/programs/ilvoices250