Past Events

Helen Shiller will be coming to the Great Cities Institute to talk about her new autobiography book, “Daring to Struggle, Daring to Win.”

“The Anthropocene,” or “Age of Man,” is a proposed name for the current geological age, one, its proponents claim to be a new era where “humans” have become a vast force capable of overwhelming the vast forces of “Nature.” This illustrated talk considers the sexed, gendered, racialized and otherwise political concept of “The Anthropocene” in dialogue with concept with the ancient reality of “Mother Nature” or Mother Earth, common to indigenous ecological knowledge as well as contemporary ecofeminist and environmental justice perspectives. This talk event will be held in the afternoon (from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM CST) of February 20, 2024, at Student Center East at UIC (750 S. Halsted) in the Cardinal Room.

Join us for an enlightening bag lunch lecture as we delve into the rich history, present challenges, and future prospects of Chicago's iconic workers cottages. These modest yet historically significant homes have been at the heart of Chicago's urban landscape for over a century, embodying the aspirations and struggles of working-class families throughout the city's rapid growth. The event will be held on Thursday, March 14th, 2024 from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM CST at the Great Cities Institute, Large Conference Room (412 South Peoria Street, Suite 400, Chicago, Illinois 60607-7067).

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On Tuesday morning, October 31st, 2023, John Hagedorn died peacefully in his home with his family at his side. We deeply mourn the loss of our dear friend and colleague. John had a long-time affiliation with the Great Cities Institute and in 2016 was given the official title of James J. Stukel Senior Faculty Fellow. He was also Professor Emeritus from the Department of Criminology, Law, and Justice. We offer our deepest condolences to his wife, Mary, and to his family. On the afternoon (from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM) of April 1, 2024, at Student Center East at UIC (750 S. Halsted), we will be hosting, with the family, an event honoring John and his work. We will feature many of his colleagues as well as former students who themselves have gone on to do incredible work in multiple arenas.

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Join us for an insightful conversation with Roy Alston, the esteemed Executive Director of Five Points in Austin, TX. Delve into the critical topic of deploying financial solutions for businesses and real estate development in low-income communities. Roy brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the table, offering invaluable insights into fostering economic growth and prosperity in underserved areas. Don't miss this opportunity to gain valuable knowledge and perspectives that can drive positive change and empower communities. The event will be held on Tuesday, April 16th, 2024 from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM CDT at the Great Cities Institute (412 South Peoria Street, Suite 400, Chicago, Illinois 60607-7067).

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The Blue Marble design team will be back to work with us to create a 100th Street Calumet River community design plan. They will be looking for community input. Please join us for the upcoming design meeting.

The Great Cities Institute at the University of Illinois Chicago will host a screening of “Listen to the Walls Fall” (Écoute les murs tomber) and “No Man Is Born to Be Stepped On” (Aucun homme n’est né pour être piétiné) by 2024 Villa Albertine Resident Lucas Roxo. This event, marking the final day of Roxo’s residency in Chicago, will be followed by an engaging discussion with the director himself. This event, which is open to the public, will be held on Monday, July 15th, 2024 from 12 PM to 2 PM CDT at the Great Cities Institute (412 South Peoria Street, Suite 400, Chicago, Illinois 60607-7067).

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