Obama announced this weekend that the highly anticipated opening date for his Presidential Center in Chicago has been set.
In a video message shared by the Obama Foundation on March 7th, Obama expressed gratitude to the residents of Chicago’s South Side for their support during the extensive construction process.
In the video, Obama stated, “Thank you for raising [former first lady] Michelle [Obama], for welcoming me as one of your own and for lifting up our family every step of the way,” the former president said.
“And thank you for embracing this presidential center, not as something of mine, but of yours,” he continued. “Hope is coming home, and it wouldn’t have happened without all of you. We can’t wait to welcome you to your presidential center.”
He revealed that the Obama Presidential Center dedication will be held on June 18th, with the full campus opening to the public the following day, June 19th.
Obama’s 19-acre Presidential Center to open on Juneteenth
This timing is significant, as it coincides with Juneteenth, the federal holiday commemorating the end of slavery in the United States.
According to the Obama Foundation, the 19-acre complex will feature a world-class museum, a new branch of the Chicago Public Library, public art installations, green spaces, and recreational areas, including a basketball court, all accessible to the community.
Inside, visitors will find artifacts and mementos from Obama’s two presidential terms, including a full-scale replica of the Oval Office and dresses worn by First Lady Michelle Obama.
The Obama Presidential Center officially broke ground on September 28th, 2021, and has been under active construction for over four years. Its opening marks a significant milestone for the area and its residents.
