New Exhibit at Chicago History Museum: 'Aqui En Chicago'

The Chicago History Museum has unveiled a fresh exhibit that brings to light the history and cultural impact of the city's Latino residents.

Titled 'Aqui en Chicago,' this exhibition has been under development for six years. It all started when students from the Instituto Justice and Leadership Academy located in Pilsen toured the museum back in 2019.

Elena Gonzalez, who serves as the curator of civic engagement and social justice, noted that the initial absence of Latino history prompted a focus on inclusivity. ‘Our primary exhibit, 'Chicago: Crossroads of America,' lacked representation of the significant Latino community here,' she conveyed.

To address this gap, the museum prioritized including the stories and histories of this portion of Chicago’s populace, culminating in the 'Aqui en Chicago' exhibit.

Gonzalez emphasized, 'Integrating the experiences of this vital demographic has been crucial in how we narrate the broader history of Chicago.' The exhibit encapsulates around 150 years of Latino presence in the region.

Opening on October 25, the exhibit boasts a myriad of artifacts ranging from fabrics to precious items, alongside photographs and audio recordings preserving oral histories.

Gonzalez described it as a diverse collection, with numerous materials and narratives. The exhibit not only celebrates cultural achievements but also reflects on the community's victories and struggles.

Curators believe that revisiting this rich history offers valuable insights for today’s society. Gonzalez remarked, 'Much of this narrative feels contemporaneous, echoing challenges and achievements relevant to present times.'

Running until November 2026, the museum hopes this exhibition will foster renewed understanding and appreciation for Chicago’s Latino community.