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In an exciting development for the city of Chicago, the eagerly anticipated opening of the Obama Presidential Center is steadily progressing. This significant cultural landmark promises to be a hub of history and inspiration on the South Side.
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On Tuesday, a fresh opportunity arose for Chicago residents to engage with the upcoming center. Valerie Jarrett, who serves as the CEO of the Obama Foundation, shared this announcement during a meeting with City Club members, sparking interest and enthusiasm.
The official inauguration ceremony has been scheduled for June 18, with the doors of the center opening to the public the following day, on June 19. This event marks a milestone in honoring the legacy of former President Barack Obama, offering a space for reflection and community engagement.
“The president’s primary wish is for the event to be enjoyable and memorable for everyone who has supported him throughout his journey,” Jarrett emphasized. “It’s also about those committed to walking with us into the future.”
“Mostly the president wants it to be fun and enjoyable for all of the folks who helped bring him this far in his journey and are committed to helping us on the road ahead,” Jarrett said.
170 people have been hired and start training next week for their assignments.
Jarrett said they are now looking for local volunteers.
“A big part of how we are going to interface with the public is through volunteers so we announced today that we are going to be recruiting 75 to 100 volunteer that will be our ambassadors,” Jarrett said.
All past presidents will be invited, but President Trump is not on the list for the opening on Juneteenth.
“It’s really going to be a celebration for all those supporters and people who were part of the administration people who worked with our administration and it’s really their opportunity to celebrate in the success. So, we would more than welcome President Trump after the opening for a tour of the center at a date and time of his choosing,” Jarrett said.
The Center has the presidential museum, an auditorium, a public library, home court for basketball, as well as a playground and gardens.
Jarrett shared there will days of events following the opening specifically for the community.
The foundation estimates 600,000 people will visit the center each year and they anticipate visitors will be a boost for the economy in particular for South Side communities.
To learn how to get involved, click here.
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