Second installment of Road Scholars Native American series set for July 18
A Native Illinois History and Contemporary Issues program will be held from 1 to 2:15 p.m. Saturday, July 18, at Isle a la Cache Museum in Romeoville.
The program is the second installment in a three-part Illinois Humanities Road Scholars series hosted by the museum. The series began in March with We the Native People, a program that featured information on the status of Native Americans when the Declaration of Independence was signed.
“Each program offers a unique perspective, and we encourage everyone to join us to learn, ask questions and explore new ideas,” said Jen Guest, facility supervisor at Isle a la Cache Museum.
The July program explores the deep history of Native American communities in Illinois and how these histories connect to the lived experiences of Native people today.
Program registration is required by Thursday, July 16. Register online or call 815-722-9301.
During the program, Illinois Humanities Road Scholar Dr. Dorene Wiese will present historical foundations of tribal nations such as the Chippewa, Potawatomi and Ottawa as well as how urban Native communities developed in Chicago in the 20th century.
Through storytelling, music, dance and art, Wiese will highlight how history is alive, how Native contributions continue today, and why cultural respect matters – reinforcing the importance of building both bridges and dialogue together.
This presentation aligns with the Illinois America 250 Commission's theme “We the People,” which explores what it means to be part of “the people.” The Illinois America 250 Commission's goals are to uplift local stories, places, and programs; build pride; and showcase how Illinois brings the ideals of the Declaration of Independence to life.
The museum is the only site in Will County to be selected by Illinois Humanities as one of 12 Priority Partners in 2026.
The final program in the series is:
Nov. 14, You are a Story: Memoir & Illinois Novelists – Aaron Lawler, a professor of humanities at Waubonsee Community College, will present a workshop that explores the questions, “Who am I? Why am I here? What does it all mean?” The workshop examines how writing memoirs, telling our own stories, and recording our lives can help us search for the answers to those questions.
