#United States #Chicago #Public Housing #National Museum

National Public Housing Museum Opens in Chicago

On April 4, 2025, Chicago welcomed a groundbreaking cultural institution: the National Public Housing Museum (NPHM). This museum, located in the historic Jane Addams Homes building, is the first of its kind in the United States dedicated to interpreting the rich, yet often overlooked, history of public housing. After 18 years of dedication and hard work by public housing residents and supporters, NPHM stands as a testament to the resilience, stories, and cultural heritage of communities that have often been marginalized in historical narratives.

A Unique Vision

The museum's founding stems from the belief that everyone deserves the right to a stable and secure home. As expressed by its Executive Director, Dr. Lisa Yun Lee, NPHM also serves as a civic anchor. It aims not only to educate visitors about the past but also to foster discussions about current housing insecurities and social justice issues. "The dazzling stories and activism of public housing residents have much to teach us," she stated during the opening ceremony.

The inception of NPHM is truly a result of collective effort, with foundational members like Sunny Fischer, Co-Founder and Board Chair, emphasizing the importance of shared narratives. Fischer remarked, "This museum was built by hundreds of dedicated people who have made it a reality... As a Site of Conscience, we join museums worldwide that tell complicated and difficult stories, preserving history while imagining a more just future."

An Innovative Space

The museum sits at 919 S. Ada Street, within the last remaining building of the Jane Addams Homes, embodying the spirit and stories of its former residents. The NPHM is designed not just as a repository of artifacts but as a vibrant cultural destination where community members and visitors can engage with the history of public housing. It aims to bridge the gap between the past and the present, providing a space where the lessons learned can inform future actions towards housing justice.

Events during the opening weekend highlighted this goal, featuring interactive art-making sessions, dance parties, and meet-and-greets with artists. This celebratory atmosphere emphasized the community aspect of the museum, allowing diverse voices to come together to share their stories.

Chairperson Francine Washington highlighted the personal connection many have with the museum. "Growing up in public housing, I saw the strength, pride, and resilience of our communities, which are too often erased," she said. With the NPHM, stories that had once been silenced now have a dedicated platform for expression. "We've always had a voice. Now we have a place that listens."

Looking Ahead

As the nation grapples with ongoing housing challenges, the National Public Housing Museum provides a crucial platform to consider these issues in depth. It encourages visitors not only to learn from the past but also to envision innovative solutions for the future. Through exhibitions, community programs, and ongoing partnerships, NPHM aspires to be a catalyst for meaningful change in the discourse surrounding housing justice.

The NPHM invites everyone—whether residents from public housing, students, scholars, or concerned citizens—to engage with its content and contribute to the ongoing conversation about secure housing for all. By honoring and showcasing the rich tapestry of stories woven by public housing residents, this museum stands as a beacon of hope and activism.

With its grand opening, the National Public Housing Museum firmly places itself in the cultural landscape of Chicago and the broader national conversation about housing as a fundamental human right. For more information, visit nphm.org.