Singing Bird and the Importance of Native American Women in Illinois History

Dressed in her Native regalia, Kim Sigafus will be giving a history of the Natives in Illinois with a focus on Native women, or what was considered “The Hidden Half.” Her primary focus will be women such as Singing Bird (Blackhawk’s wife), and Hononegah. Kim will bring the audience into these women’s day-to-day lives, including courting, marriage, and child-rearing. She will also talk about their role in their husbands’ lives, and how those lives affected the history of Illinois. Kim will bring native items that women would have used in their daily lives, as she discusses the role women played within the family unit. The audience will be able to pick up and view the items, learn native language and music, and get the chance to play the drum in this interactive experience.

How to Attend
This event takes place in person. Masks are strongly encouraged in all CPL locations. Questions about visiting the library? Check out our Using the Library FAQs.

Accessibility
Need sign language interpretation or other accessibility assistance for this event? Please call (312) 747-8184 or email access@chipublib.org to request accommodations. Requests must be made at least 14 business days before the event.

This event is part of the 2023 One Book, One Chicago season, exploring the book There There by Tommy Orange.