Lookingglass Honoring 1919 Race Riot Victims With Lakefront Performance Sunday

Lookingglass ensemble members J. Nicole Brooks and Kareem Bandealy launched an annual community art ritual to commemorate victims of the 1919 Chicago race riots, taking place every July 27. The date marks the anniversary of the violence triggered by the drowning of Eugene Williams, a Black youth who crossed an unofficial racial boundary at a beach. They produced a short film, "Sunset 1919," featuring Brooks' script and music by Ben LaMar Gay. The community ceremony includes a release of memorial carnations into Lake Michigan, symbolizing both grief and hope.

This year, the event will unveil a mural by artist Pugz Atomz, part of a project to commission murals from different Black artists each year. Brooks emphasizes the importance of honoring those affected by racial violence through art. Bandealy adds that storytelling is crucial for cultural shaping and fostering hope. The initiative invites community participation in addressing historical and contemporary racial issues.