VILLAGE LIFE MAGAZINE
FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 6, 2013
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monument to her life and work here in the place she called home for so many years and trust that the project will soon become a reality. – Congressman Danny K. Davis (D-IL 7th District) It is without hesitation that I offer my support for the Ida B. Wells Monument. Sadly, much of the history of Bronzeville is not celebrated as it should be. It is important that people who live or visit our community know about the many contributions some of its residents have made towards social justice…She used her many talents to address inequality wherever she saw it even in the face of threats against her….As residents and tourists alike visit the monument, they will undoubtedly be moved by the courageous dedication exhibited by Ms. Wells and gain a greater appreciation for the historical significance of Bronzeville. I see this as an opportunity to generate community pride while inspiring others to pursue the type of important work that was carried out by Ida B. Wells. - Alderman Pat Dowell, 3rd Ward “It is with hope and pride that I support the movement for an Ida B. Wells Monument in Oakwood Shores. As a journalist and social activist, Wells was a strong voice against racism and sexism. Her advocacy paved the way for generations of African-Americans who followed her, and she should be commemorated with a monument that will invite future generations to learn about her contributions.” – Illinois State Senator Kwame Raoul, 13th District “At a time when women were seen and not heard, Ida B. Wells was a voice for those who had none. Even today her legacy lives on, and she continues to be a role model for young women. Her advocacy for equality for women and African Americans should inspire us all to speak out against injustice.” – Lt. Governor Sheila Simon
ONLINE EDITION
The Monument A monumental sculpture accompanied by supportive art pieces will be located in a park-like setting on the Langley Boulevard median, just south of 37th Street in Chicago’s Bronzeville neighborhood. The Langley Boulevard median lies at the heart of the Oakwood Shores community, on the former site of the Ida B. Wells public housing development. The plaza where the Ida B. Wells monument will be erected. The Ida B. Wells Commemorative Art Committee has commissioned the creation of a sculptured monument that will honor the life and times of the historic Ida B. Wells. The sculpture will be created by Richard Hunt, a Chicago native and world-renowned artist. The abstract sculpture capturing the artist’s vision of Ida B. Wells and her legacy will be at least 20 feet tall, and will have a large base upon which an image of Ida B. Wells and excerpts of her writings will be engraved. Upon completion, this monument will be donated to the City of Chicago’s Public Art Collection. As a second phase of the project, smaller, interactive art pieces will be commissioned to allow the public to experience the work of Ida B. Wells in a reflective manner. While a precise description of the project awaits the artist’s conception, additional elements may include a timeline of key events related to Ms. Wells’ causes and accomplishments, occasional seating along the pathway in the Langley median, or boulevard signposts or similar features with a historical narrative and illustrations.
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