Celebrating Black History Month 2025

From the Equity and Inclusion Commission 
The Equity & Inclusion Commission makes recommendations to City Council to ensure the community is inclusive and welcoming to all individuals regardless of age, gender, race, culture, sexual orientation, religion, or abilities. 

Celebrating Black History Month 

February is National Black History Month. It was officially recognized in 1976 during the U.S. Bicentennial by President Gerald Ford. This month, we honor the generations of Black Americans who have contributed mightily to this country.  

The St. Charles History Museum shares the story of Joanna Garner, who escaped slavery in the South through the Underground Railroad and settled in St. Charles. Two of Garner's great-grandchildren, William Luckett, a commercial artist, and Harriet Luckett Harris, are represented in the mural of the Municipal building lobby. Learn more about them on the St. Charles History Museum’s website: Seeking Freedom in St. Charles: The Garner Family Story — St. Charles History Museum. 

Local Events

The St. Charles History Museum will host an art exhibition that will prominently feature the work of Luckett and his daughter, Yvonne Almo, beginning Tuesday, Feb. 11, and running through May.

The Museum, in partnership with The Conservation Foundation, will present "A Road to Freedom: Kane County Anti-Slavery Society and the Underground Railroad" on March 19, as part of the Foundation's program series. This program will take place from 7 to 8 p.m. at the Baker Community Center, 101 S. 2nd St., St. Charles. To register for the free event, click here.

The St. Charles Public Library will host events throughout the month. Register for Illinois Libraries Presents’ online presentation with National Book Award winning author James McBride on Tuesday, Feb. 4: An Evening with James McBride - St. Charles Public Library. 

When

Location

St. Charles, IL, 60174