(July 20, 2012 – Chicago, IL) On Monday, July 16, 2012, The Ida B. Wells Commemorative Art Committee (IBWCAC) hosted an informal reception to celebrate the 150thbirthday of Ida B. Wells. She was born a slave in Holly Springs, MS on July 16, 1862 and became an influential journalist, teacher, anti-lynching crusader, women’s rights activist and civil rights pioneer. The Committee has commissioned world-renowned sculptor and Chicago native, Richard Hunt, to create a monument that will capture the life, times and work of Ida B. Wells. Wells lived, worked and raised a family in the Bronzeville neighborhood for over 30 years from 1894 until she passed on March 25, 1931.
Mr. Hunt talked about how he was influenced by the Bronzeville neighborhood while growing up including taking advantage of opportunities at the Abraham Lincoln Center. He gave an overview of his vision for the 20-foot monument that will include three different sections that will focus on different concentrations of work Ida B. Wells was involved in. Over 80 business, civic and political leaders, as well as local residents and interested supporters enjoyed updates and a tour of the site at 37th& Langley where the monument will be installed. The site is a short walk from the house Wells and her husband, Ferdinand L. Barnett, lived in on 3624 S. King Drive which has a landmark status.
Fourth Ward Alderman William D. Burns gave remarks where he explained how Ida B. Wells tried to build bridges between the middle class and the more working class people in the Bronzeville neighborhood. He stressed how she led the example of how to treat our neighbors as ourselves. CHA Commissioner Sandra Young, who also lived in the Ida B. Wells homes, mentioned that even though the homes are no longer there, the great work that Ida B. Wells did should be remembered. Jessica Caffrey, Financial Secretary for IBWCAC said that the estimated cost of the monument is $300,000 and so far almost $50,000 has been raised.