Artists Commemorate Chicago's 1919 Race Riot with Glass Markers
The Chicago Race Riot of 1919 Commemoration Project has spent years placing memorials across the city to honor those killed during this pivotal event. The latest glass markers were showcased in a walking tour in the Loop on Saturday.
Remembering Paul Hardwick
At the corner of Adams Street and Wabash Avenue, many see just a busy intersection near the Chicago Theatre and Grant Park. For Paul Hardwick, this spot marked his final moments. Over 100 years ago, Hardwick, an African American man on his way to work at the Palmer House hotel, was chased by about 30 white attackers. He was shot in the chest, beaten, and robbed.
"He was long forgotten as one of 38 killed in the Chicago Race Riot of 1919, which historians say is not often taught or discussed."
Thanks to the Commemoration Project, Hardwick is now honored with a glass marker at the site of his death.
About the Memorial Markers
Volunteers have installed 19 brick-shaped glass memorials throughout Chicago, showing where the killings occurred. These pieces were created by young people affected by violence, developed under the guidance of Firebird Community Arts, an East Garfield Park group with a trauma-informed arts program.
"Their work was overseen by Firebird Community Arts, an East Garfield Park organization that has a trauma-informed arts program."
Hardwick’s plaque is among the newest additions to this ongoing remembrance effort.
Author's Summary
This project brings to light overlooked victims of the 1919 Chicago Race Riot through powerful community-created glass markers, fostering remembrance and healing.