News + Events

Women’s History Month: Gwendolyn Brooks

March 7, 2023
Gwendolyn Brooks smiling in front of bookshelf

Kicking off our Women’s History Month series, we highlight Gwendolyn Brooks a Chicago native and world-renowned poet. Brooks became revered for her sociopolitical consciousness in her work which conveyed the Black experience in America through language that resonated across the country. Her ability to impact people through her writing made her the first Black author…

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Black History Month: Ruth Ellis

February 28, 2023
Ruth Ellis dancing

Today, we’re highlighting Ruth Ellis, a legendary activist known and loved for creating safe and supportive spaces for the LGBTQ+ community. Ellis’ home in Detroit became a source of support for those in need and a gathering spot where people could be themselves. She often bought books and food for young people, helped with college…

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BUILD Ribbon-Cutting

February 27, 2023
BUILD Opening operformance at main stairway

Exciting news! BUILD Chicago just had their ribbon-cutting ceremony for their new community center, and we were lucky enough to be a part of it. We’re thrilled to see all the amazing work that BUILD Chicago is doing to empower and uplift the Austin neighborhood. Congrats on the new space, and we can’t wait to see…

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Toni Stone at The Goodman Theatre

February 22, 2023
LBBA team at the Goodman Theatre

The LBBA team had a great night out at The Goodman Theatre where we saw Toni Stone, a play about the first woman to play professional baseball. Moments of laughter, sorrow, and joy throughout her story of overcoming racism and sexism came together for an inspiring and thought-provoking show.

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Black History Month: Richard Hunt

February 17, 2023
Richard Hunt at his studio

Continuing our Black History Month celebration, we’d like to show appreciation for world-renowned sculptor Richard Hunt. Originally from Chicago’s Woodlawn neighborhood, Hunt is most known for connecting abstract public art with the African American experience. He’s sculpted monuments for some of America’s greatest heroes, including Martin Luther King, Jr., Mary McLeod Bethune, Hobart Taylor, Jr.,…

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