On March 4, 2020, the amendment to Bill HB4954 introduced by House representative, LaShawn K. Ford of the 8th District, was called into a house committee hearing in Springfield. In addition to amending school codes to add commemorative holidays, Humanitarian Day, Victims of Violence Wholly Day, and Dream Day, the amendment mandates that all schools in the State of Illinois teach children grades K-12 Black History. Specifically, the amendment provides that the curriculum taught include the American Civil Rights movement from 1954-1965 and the study of pre-enslavement history.
The month of February is set aside to celebrate the richness that is the history of African-Americans. While this month is ending, there is no reason why celebrating past and present history makers of black history should come to a halt. Fortunately, for Chicagoans, there are plenty of ways to continue the celebration. During the month of March, several upcoming events are going on in the city for all to enjoy.
