WHAT: Dedication of Jane Addams: An Homage
WHEN: Friday, November 18 at 2:30 p.m
WHERE: The Ohio Street Pedestrian Underpass leading under Lake Shore Drive
Women's suffrage. The eight-hour workday. Child care for working mothers. These are just a few campaigns pioneered by Jane Addams, co-founder of Chicago's Hull-House and renowned social justice activist. A new art installation in downtown Chicago will honor Addams' legacy as well as spotlight contemporary women's struggles, thanks in part to funding from Chicago Foundation for Women.
Chicago Public Art Group designed and installed the multimedia art project, with additional support from the Chicago Park District.
Lead artist Mirtes Zwierzynski says the mosaic tile borders reference the art of quilting, an activity that groups of women did together at Hull-House. These mosaic borders were created by volunteers of Chicago Foundation of Women who participated in several workshops — similar to those held more than 100 years ago at Hull-House.
"This mural is a memorial, but it's also a call to action," says K. Sujata, CFW's president and CEO. "Public budgets are being balanced on the backs of women and girls through cuts to critical programs for their equity, safety and health. Women must continue to work hard to hold our ground and blaze new trails."
Gail Ludewig, CFW's past board chair, adds, "The mural reminds me both of how far women have come since the days of Jane Addams, and of the hard work that remains to be done."
Chicago Foundation for Women raises money to fund and support organizations that help women and girls—it's all about making smarter connections between need, money, and solutions. We believe that when women and girls are secure, whole communities are made better. We improve the lives of women and girls through grants, advocacy, leadership development, and public and grantee education. Since 1985, we have given more than 2,900 grants totaling nearly $20 million. Learn more at www.cfw.org .
