Who gets to be a citizen? How did debates in Chicago around voting, lynching and women’s rights break down across racial lines? How do we think about these divisions today, and why are they relevant?

Join us for a panel discussion about three significant Chicago-based women activists who were connected in their reform work, but encountered difficulties in finding common ground. Ida B. Wells, Frances Willard and Jane Addams each worked to expand women’s rights and influence. However, they had significant disagreements in their approaches informed by their differing views about the impact of race and racism. The panel discussion will focus on the historical breakdowns in feminism and race for Willard and Addams, and tell the story of Wells’ efforts to hold them each accountable. We will also explore the contemporary resonance of these debates in current movements.

Panelists:

Michelle Duster, great-granddaughter of journalist and anti-lynching advocate Ida B. Wells

Rima Lunin Schultz, historian and author

Jennifer Scott, Director and Chief Curator, Jane Addams Hull-House Museum

Leslie Harris, Professor, Northwestern University Department of History

Lori Osborne, Museum Director, Frances Willard House Museum

This event is presented in partnership with the Jane Addams Hull-House Museum, Reaching Across Illinois Library System, Aurora Public Library, Gail Borden Public Library, and Schaumburg Township District Library.

This event takes place on Facebook. You do not need a Facebook account to watch live at: https://www.facebook.com/arlingtonheightslibrary/.

Explore more Suffrage Centennial events presented in partnership with Jane Addams Hull House.