Black History Month began Wednesday, honoring the achievements and sacrifices of African Americans throughout history. In Chicago, the month began with the celebration of our city’s founder: Jean Baptiste Pointe DuSable.
DuSable was the first permanent non-indigenous settler in Chicago. Black Heroes Matter, a local group founded by Ephraim Malachi Martin, wanted to honor Chicago’s founder with the symbolic crowning of the DuSable bust located near the Chicago Riverwalk in the Loop.
“We are here to celebrate and kick off Black History Month with DuSable. He is the pioneer — and why not start out with the pioneer to celebrate Black History Month?” said Melanie L. Brown.
Brown said DuSable deserves to be crowned, emphasizing the importance of recognizing Black leaders throughout history. The Black Heroes Matter group pushed city leaders to enact the DuSable monument.
“We ask that the next administration that comes into office recognizes the work that we have been doing, and will continue to do, and will do the right thing and give him his monument,” said Tremell Williams.
Williams believes the city should do more to celebrate DuSable while also raising awareness of Black heroes throughout history.
“We want everyone to get into the mindset of honoring our Black heroes. No matter where you’re from, no matter what city you’re from. Here in Chicago we want to honor DuSable,” said Williams.
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