The Chicago Black History of Phillips and DuSable High Schools
Join us for a community-led celebration of the history and impact of Phillips and DuSable High Schools. We’ll explore the deep-rooted legacy of these landmark institutions and honor the Black excellence that has shaped Chicago and America for generations.
The event will include a discussion panel with "Dilla" the Chicago Historian, CPS Chief Equity Officer, Dr. Fatima Cooke, Dr. Lionel Kimble, Historian and Professor at Chicago State University and Phillips and DuSable Campus Leadership, Students and Alumni.
Event Details
- When: Tuesday, February 17, 2026
4:00 p.m.: Early Arrival & Refreshments
5:00 p.m.: Main Program Starts - Where: Wendell Phillips Academy High School
244 E Pershing Rd, Chicago, IL 60653
History in the Making: Celebrating CPS Trailblazers
For Black History Month and all year long, Chicago Public Schools is honoring its history makers, leaders, and influential personalities from its past and present to learn more about how their achievements and contributions have shaped Chicago's Black History and the world we live in today. Throughout February, students and staff are celebrating the rich history, contributions, and achievements of people of the African diaspora through a series of school-based events, activities, and district initiatives.
From the great founder of our city, Jean Baptiste Point du Sable, to the first Black alderman, Oscar DePriest, Chicago's history has been shaped by trailblazing Black leaders. Their legacies live in places from DuSable Lake Shore Drive to the DuSable Black History Museum to our District’s own DuSable High School, where young minds are inspired by those who came before.
Jean Baptiste Point du Sable
Assistant Principal Burton at Murphy Elementary School emphasizes the significant role of Jean Baptiste Point du Sable in the foundation of Chicago.
Many additional schools also bear the names of black artists, historians, and leaders. Al Raby High School honors the life and legacy of a CPS teacher, activist, and civil rights leader who fought against racism in education, housing, and employment practices. Gwendolyn Brooks High School honors the first Black woman to be named U.S. Poet Laureate. Goode STEM Academy pays homage to the work of inventor Sarah E. Goode, who was the first Black woman to receive a U.S. patent.
Gwendolyn Brooks
Dr. Fatima Cooke, CPS Chief of Equity, Engagement, and Strategy, shares historical details about Gwendolyn Brooks High School's honoring of the first Black woman to be named U.S. Poet Laureate.
These and other Black leaders paved the way for future CPS students, like Margaret Burroughs, a graduate of Englewood High School who founded the DuSable Museum of African American History. And Mae Jamison, whose passion for science took her from Morgan Park High School to space as the first Black female astronaut.
Dr. Margaret Taylor Burroughs
Wendell Smith Elementary School Principal Crockett reflects on the lasting legacy of renowned activist, teacher, and founder of the DuSable Museum of Art.
Their journeys inspire our students today. Black history is Chicago's history. It lives within our schools, within our curriculum, and within every young mind ready to reach for the stars and their legacy continues.
Ralph Metcalfe
CPS Chief Operating Officer Charles Mayfield highlights Ralph Metcalfe, a CPS Tilden Tech graduate who held the world record in the 100-meter dash and placed second in two Olympic games.
Harold Washington
A CPS DuSable High School graduate, Washington broke barriers as Chicago's first Black Mayor. His legacy lives on, inspiring future leaders with his vision and dedication to public service.
Pullman Porters
Following the Civil War, rapid railway expansion attracted freed Black Slaves to work in Chicago as porters on the Pullman Cars, the largest Black Male workforce in the US.