63rd Street Beach Drummers, A Woodlawn Staple For Over 50 Years, Shut Out Of Longtime Space

The 63rd Street drum circle, a cultural hallmark in Woodlawn since 1970, has been unable to gather at its traditional lakefront park due to a new gated parking system implemented by the Chicago Park District in July. This system imposes fees as high as $23 for a full day and has been met with criticism from drum circle members, who assert they were not informed of the changes. Snow fencing has further restricted access to their gathering spot, which has historically served as a vibrant community space. Local officials, including Alderman Desmon Yancy, have expressed a desire for the Park District to make accommodations for the drummers. Will Crosby, a long-time member, underscored the area's cultural significance, recalling its history and the community's efforts to protect it.

Advocates argue that the drum circle fosters intergenerational and multicultural connections that are essential for community healing. The Park District claims the changes are part of a pilot program aimed at improving safety and compliance with parking rules. Drummers are calling for recognition of their contributions and the importance of preserving this cultural space.