Illinois Speaks

Illinois Speaks is a community-driven, small group conversation program that seeks to promote discussions within and across communities about issues impacting our lives as a means of strengthening the democratic process.

Illinois Speaks provides resources to support monthly small group discussions within communities throughout the state. These discussions focus on current events and the impact of these events on our communities. They are led by paid facilitators from the community who have been trained by Illinois Humanities and who have access to materials focusing on media representations of current events provided by Illinois Humanities.

Ongoing Illinois Speaks Meetings

In Golconda & Vienna, IL: 

Image from August 27, 2019 Peoria Illinois Speaks session with Nikki Romain
Both of these are from Peoria’s Illinois Speaks from August 27, 2019, featuring guest speaker Nikki Romain and entitled “Inspiring and Empowering our Community through the Arts.” Learn more about Nikki Romain.

Every second Tuesday of the month @ 6pm.
Alternating monthly between Golconda’s Riverview Mansion Hotel (222 S. Columbus Ave) and Vienna Diner (511 East Vine Street).

Next meeting: Tuesday, February 11th in Vienna.
Topic: Inspiring and Empowering Our Community Through the Arts

For more information, please visit their facebook.

Facilitated by Sandra Pfeifer (feedroomfilms@gmail.com)

In Peoria, IL:

Every fourth Tuesday of the month @ 6pm. Discussions held at Peoria Public Library – Lakeview Branch (1137 W Lake Ave, Peoria, IL 61614).

Next meeting: Tuesday, February 25th
Topic: “Talking About My Generation” – Bridging Intergenerational Divides

Facilitated by Dr. Sarah Glover (Bradley University)

Coordinated by Roberta Koscielski (RobertaKoscielski@PPL.Peoria.lib.il.us); presented in partnership with Peoria Public Library

In South Shore, Chicago, IL:

Next meeting: Thursday, February 20th at 6pm at 1818 E 71st St.
Topic: Welcome to the South Shore Arts and Culture Committee

Facilitated by Chakka Reeves

Presented in partnership with the Neighborhood Network Alliance. For more information, contact Val Free (vfree@thenna.org)

Illinois Speaks Awards

See events that have taken place already

Apply for an “Activate History” micro-grant.