Join Us in Celebrating Black History Month 2025!
Did you know that Bronzeville-Black Metropolis National Heritage Area is the birthplace of Black History Month? Originally founded as Black History Week by Carter G. Woodson at the Wabash Avenue YMCA in Bronzeville in 1926. Black History Month is now celebrated worldwide.
Black Metropolis National Heritage Area Commission
The 2025 Black History Month theme is African Americans and Labor, focusing on the various and profound ways that work and working of all kinds – free and unfree, skilled and unskilled, vocational and voluntary – intersect with the collective experiences of Black people.
World-renowned artist Purvis Young captured the 2025 Black History Month theme in his drawing, “I Have a Job! I Have a Job!” Young credited Chicago’s Wall of Respect mural throughout his life as his creative inspiration. Located in the Bronzeville-Black Metropolis National Heritage Area, the 1960s public art mural at 43rd and Langley was at the heart of the Black Arts Movement in the United States.
Young, Purvis Untitled ©Larry T. Clemons Collection
You're Invited
Purvis Young, Raymond Thomas Art Exhibition & Program
Purvis Young: Messenger of Salvation and Liberation exhibition and program on his life and work influenced by the Bronzeville-Black Metropolis National Heritage Area’s Wall of Respect. Plus, Cry Loud and Spare Not, an exhibition by Bronzeville artist Raymond A. Thomas.
Join us for a powerful celebration of culture, legacy, and community as we honor the life and impact of Ida B. Wells
at her National Monument and across historic
Bronzeville & Chicago Surrounds.
This year’s festival will feature, local vendors, food, art,
history tours, and family-friendly activities.
All in tribute to the fearless spirit of Ida B. Wells.
Don’t miss this unforgettable experience.
Register today and be part of the movement!