CHICAGO – In an effort to recognize and celebrate the importance of museums in Chicago’s art ecosystem and ensure they continue to function amid federal cuts, state Rep. Kim DuBuclet, D-Chicago, is inviting those interested in learning more to attend her upcoming museum tour.
“Since this new administration has taken root in Washington, we have seen unprecedented attacks on the history of our nation such as removing certain federal websites’ mention of segregation and other dark chapters of America’s past. Recently plans to “tone down” the Smithsonian’s exhibit on slavery because it does not show the nation at its best have also surfaced,” said DuBuclet. “Our history is deeply important, and museums help us to learn and reflect on the past so that we can forge a better future together. I concerned about how the federal government can impact our museums, but I am doing everything I can to make sure any federal cuts do not impede their core mission.”
DuBuclet is hoping to gather feedback from our museums that she will utilize as the chairwoman of the Illinois House’s Museums, Arts, Culture and Entertainment Committee (MACE) to ensure our they continue to meet the public’s needs even if federal support is significantly reduced. DuBuclet’s tour will begin at the DuSable Black History Museum and Education Center and also include later stops at the Museum of Contemporary Art and Art Institute of Chicago. Since Trump has taken office, his administration has been highly critical of our nation’s cultural and historical institutions. DuBuclet hopes to use the tour to hear more from the museums and the people they serve to formulate a better state response to any reduction of federal support in
Illinois.
DuBuclet’s tour will take place on Oct. 9, from 9:00 AM until 2:30 PM. Free shuttle service between the sites will be provided. If you’re interested in attending, please send a message to Rep5district@gmail.com