Museum Receives $10,000 from the Illinois Humanities Council

     The story begins in the "colonias" of Mexican workers and families in railroad boxcar camps on the west side of town and extends to present day Mexican Americans with leadership roles in the community. The bilingual exhibit will feature photographs, maps, first person narratives and a DVD presentation. This is a highly relevant subject for study and presentation, as Mexicans in DuPage County and Illinois make up the largest immigrant ethnic group. Creating Mexican American Identities: Multiple Voices, Shared Dreams will be unveiled at the Museum in September 2008, and then will tour DuPage County and Chicagoland venues.

     "The Illinois Humanities Council is proud to support not-for-profit organizations that promote the importance of the humanities in private and public life. Through their efforts, Illinoisans have greater access to lifelong learning opportunities," said IHC Executive Director Kristina A. Valaitis.

     For more information about the West Chicago City Museum's traveling exhibit, please contact the Museum at (630) 231-3376. The West Chicago City Museum is a dynamic history and art center that inspires and involves the community through research, programs and exhibits.