SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) — On Wednesday, more than 150 people marched from Union Baptist Church to the Route History Museum for a rally and information session.
Participants young and old were educated about figures throughout the state that have been foundational to its history.Â
"We have the opportunity to explore Black experiences and Black history in the cities of Chicago, Joliet, Bloomington, Springfield, East St. Louis and throughout Illinois. And really be able to celebrate those untold and unheard of leaders that were very instrumental in growing and developing their communities, and creating great leaders that were influential throughout the entire world," said Dr. Gina Lathan, co-owner of Route History Museum.
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Adult participants listened to speeches about the importance of community education, maternal health, economics, and social justice, while students went into the museum to learn about some of the exhibits.
A highlight for many students was the Museum's Virtual Reality (VR) exhibit, where they were able to experience the segregated Historic Route 66. They learned about important Black business owners, who made it possible for everyone to have a safe space to stop while traveling.
"We want people to feel good about where they come from, and also to let them know that the sky's the limit when it comes to accomplishments and achieving things," said Dr. Stacy Grundy, co-owner of Route History Museum. "You don't have to be famous or be on the cover of a billboard to be a history maker."
The march and social justice rally were organized by the Illinois chapters of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity and Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority.
For more information on the Route History Museum, click here.
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