The Obama Presidential Center officially opened on June 19—Juneteenth—and the timing could not have been more fitting. America’s first African American president opened his presidential center on the very day that commemorates when enslaved people in Galveston, Texas, finally learned they were free on June 19, 1865. It was truly a full-circle moment.
The grand opening drew thousands of visitors eager to experience everything the center has to offer. Architecturally, the campus is stunning from top to bottom, and opening weekend was filled with musical performances, distinguished guests, families, children, and every living U.S. president and first lady except one.
Situated on 19.3 acres, the Obama Presidential Center features a branch of the Chicago Public Library, an athletic facility, beautifully designed public gardens, and an immersive museum that tells the story of President Barack Obama’s life, presidency, and vision for civic engagement. It is everything many hoped it would be—and more.
The center was built at a cost of approximately $850 million and is expected to welcome nearly 700,000 visitors each year.
Closer to home, Paul Quinn College President Dr. Michael Sorrell and his beautiful family had the opportunity to visit the center. As a Chicago native, Dr. Sorrell undoubtedly experienced a special sense of pride while touring this historic landmark.
For those of us who haven’t yet made the trip, the Obama Presidential Center deserves a place on our bucket list. It’s certainly on mine.
For more information, visit obama.org.
