Every year on Feb. 12, Illinoisans and Americans celebrate Abraham Lincoln's life and legacy. Born in 1809 in Kentucky, Lincoln's journey brought him to Illinois, where he built the foundation of his career and developed his character and commitment to democracy. Known as the "Land of Lincoln," Illinois played a crucial role in shaping the leader who would later guide the nation through its most challenging times.
Lincoln's deep Illinois roots shine. Although not born in Illinois, Abraham Lincoln credited the state with shaping his identity. As a young man, he moved to New Salem, where he worked as a surveyor and postmaster before pursuing law in Springfield, his future home.
In Illinois, Lincoln refined his anti-slavery stance, which would define his presidency. His debates with Stephen A. Douglas in the 1858 Senate race highlighted his eloquence and conviction. Although he lost the race, the debates thrust him into the national spotlight, leading to his election as the 16th president of the United States in 1860.
Lincoln's enduring legacy and presidency confronted extraordinary challenges as he led the nation through the Civil War and issued the Emancipation Proclamation, which moved the country closer to abolishing slavery. His leadership preserved the Union but ultimately cost him his life in April 1865.
Today, his legacy is prominent in Illinois, with sites such as the Lincoln Home in Springfield and the statue in Grant Park, Chicago. The Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum draws many visitors. Lastly, we cannot forget where it started with the historic New Salem State Park in Petersburg.
On Feb. 12, we honor Abraham Lincoln and the values he embodied: integrity, perseverance and equality. Whether visiting a historic site or reflecting on his contributions, celebrating his birthday reminds us of his significant impact on our nation and his proud Illinois roots.
Happy birthday, Abe!
Did you know the Special Olympics Illinois Winter Games are being held in Galena this year? The event is the climactic contest for those participating in alpine skiing and snow shoeing. The Winter Games, held Feb. 11-13 at Chestnut Mountain Resort in Galena, will feature more than 450 athletes who compete over the span of three days.
First held at Soldier Field in July 1968, the Special Olympics was created by Eunice Kennedy Shriver to give people with intellectual disabilities an outlet to realize their potential in sports and bring self-confidence to the participants.
The Winter Games features a modified giant slalom time trial and a snowshoeing event. The event also features an athlete parade in Galena, complete with a torch lighting ceremony to signify the beginning of the games. Several events are held over the course of the games and participants are not charged for attending.
Special Olympics Illinois holds events in many sports across the state year-round. Learn more about the organization and the event here.
I Like Illinois is celebrating Black History Month by highlighting important historical museums and places across Illinois to uplift the rich African American culture and heritage in the state. From historic civil rights leaders to art and culture, there are many places across Illinois to immerse yourself in history and learn more about the contributions of African Americans in the state and the country.
The Bronzeville Neighborhood
Bronzeville, also known as the "Black Metropolis," was the center of African American culture and commerce in Chicago during the early-to-mid 20th century. It was home to influential African American leaders like Ida B. Wells, Louis Armstrong and Richard Wright. The neighborhood still has historic sites such as the "Victory Monument" honoring African American soldiers, and the former homes of famous figures.
Visiting Bronzeville gives you the chance to step into a historically rich area that was the birthplace of many cultural movements, from jazz to the Great Migration. Walking tours are available to explore the legacy of African American intellectuals, musicians and activists who helped define the area and the nation.
Feb. 1 is National Freedom Day! This day was founded to celebrate the freedoms we enjoy as U.S. citizens, freedoms that we should never take for granted.
Specifically, the holiday commemorates the day in 1865 when President Abraham Lincoln signed what would later become the 13th Amendment. This amendment abolished slavery and involuntary servitude in the United States, except as a punishment for crime.
On National Freedom Day, there is typically a wreath laying at the Liberty Bell in Philadelphia, the former U.S. capital. Those who observe the day see it as an opportunity to promote goodwill and social equality and to appreciate freedoms that are often taken for granted. Additionally, many people observe the day with a special ceremony, parade, or other event, along with speeches, performances and educational programs.
Lincoln did not live to see the 13th Amendment ratified, but there was a movement to see Feb. 1 celebrate freedom each year. National Freedom Day was the idea of former Georgia slave Richard Wright, who lobbied Congress to designate Feb. 1 as the day.
Freedom is one of the founding principles of the United States of America and this day was envisioned as a way for all citizens to take a moment to appreciate how lucky they are. We should all be thankful for the many freedoms we are afforded as citizens of this great country and state!