Facing History: A Conversation on Racism, Gentrification, and Education in Let the Little Light Shine | Facing History & Ourselves
Still image from the film Let the Little Light Shine.
Community Event

Facing History: A Conversation on Racism, Gentrification, and Education in Let the Little Light Shine

Please join Facing History for a conversation exploring racial justice and civic agency in Chicago, and screening of clips from the award-winning documentary “Let the Little Light Shine”.

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Chicago, IL

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Please join Facing History for a conversation exploring racial justice and civic agency in Chicago. The award-winning documentary Let the Little Light Shine tells the story of a community in the South Loop area fighting to keep their local CPS elementary school open in the face of gentrifying forces. Joined by a diverse panel of community activists, educators, and scholars, we will watch excerpts from the film and reflect on the difference that each of us can make when we choose to participate.


When & Where

Thursday, February 16, 2023
5:30-7:00 PM

This event will be held in person at Row 24

Address: 2411 S Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60616

Featured Speakers

Kevin Shaw

Director, Producer, Cinematographer

Kevin Shaw Headshot

Isaac Castelaz

Education Consultant, former Principal of National Teachers Academy

Isaac Castelaz Headshot

Elisabeth Greer

Professor of English, Harold Washington College

Elizabeth Greer Headshot

Lisa Lee

Executive Director, National Public Housing Museum

Lisa Lee Headshot

Roderick Wilson

Executive Director, Lugenia Burns Hope Center

Roderick Wilson Headshot

About The Film

When a thriving, top-ranked African American elementary school is threatened to be replaced by a new high school favoring the community’s wealthier residents, parents, students and educators fight for the elementary school’s survival.

The story follows everyday parents-turned-organizers alongside NTA students and staff as they advocate to keep their elementary school, which is a safe haven for children and a community bedrock in Chicago’s fastest growing neighborhood - The South Loop.

Trailer for the documentary: Let The Little Light Shine.

Trailer for the documentary: Let The Little Light Shine.

We encourage everyone to watch the film for free on PBS ahead of our discussion! Please follow this link to view Let The Little Light Shine!