A state task force is in the early stages of creating a cohesive history of the Underground Railroad in Illinois.
The Illinois Underground Railroad Task Force was established last year through Senate Bill 1623.
Its goal is to create a statewide plan to connect existing projects with new ones – and enhance educational and tourism opportunities.
During a first meeting Tuesday in Springfield, State Senator Dave Koehler and State Rep. Debbie Meyers were appointed co-chairs of the task force, which also includes representatives from the Illinois Department of Natural Resources and Illinois State Historical Society.
“The history of Underground Railroad is one of freedom, bravery, and community. Because of its geographical location, Illinois has a robust history of sites, communities, and individuals who helped on or used the Underground Railroad for a network of freedom,” said Jenn Edginton, interim director of the Illinois State Museum. “This task force will help explore more ways to bring this history to light.”
Edgington said communities, descendants, and historians across the state will be asked to contribute to the project, with more details to be provided via the IDNR website.
One of the lawmakers on the task force is State Senator Jill Tracy. Her district includes parts of west central Illinois where slaves passed through on their way to freedom.
“Many thought that if you escaped slavery to a free state, that would be the end of it, and in fact it wasn’t. The stories of bravery and endurance from those that were freedom-seekers and those that protected them are just incredible,” Tracy said.
The task force expects to deliver a report to the Governor and General Assembly by July 1.
“It’s time we bring to light our history that led us to where we are today,” said State Senator Doris Turner, another member of the task force. “Illinois played a crucial role in freeing slaves and we need to recognize the pioneers who fought for the rights of African Americans, giving them the freedom and justice they deserved.”
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