Hadiya Pendleton Atrium

The Atrium located in the Forum is an open and welcoming space that invites visitors to gather, connect, and better understand the boundless potential that lies within each of them. Named in memory of Hadiya Pendleton, a Chicago teenager who was killed in a tragic shooting, the Atrium serves as a space of conversation, reflection and inspiration for all.
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What To Do and See In The Atrium

Gwendolyn Brooks Platform

Gwendolyn Brooks Platform

This elevated space, named in honor of groundbreaking poet Gwendolyn Brooks, serves as a hub for performances as well as formal and informal community activities. This multipurpose lounge space offers views into the Auditorium and also hosts performances and community activities.
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to see what they see

To See What They Could See; American Vista

The large installation, created by world-renowned artist Theaster Gates, stands as a symbol of community, strength, and civic action. Gates’s installation reflects on the power of collective resilience and honors the everyday individuals whose lives and practices sustain and enshrine movements for justice and change.
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John Lewis Plaza

The Plaza is a lively outdoor space welcoming visitors to the Center. The Plaza–which serves as an entry point for the Forum, Museum, and Library buildings–is a dynamic hub built to foster the spirit of community that was central to the legacy of Congressman Lewis.
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The Legacy of Hadiya Pendleton 


At 15 years old, Hadiya Pendleton was tragically killed in a shooting in Chicago one week after performing with her majorette squad in Washington D.C. for President Obama’s second inauguration. Though Mrs. Obama never got to meet Hadiya, her story and life deeply resonated with the first lady.  Hadiya was a bright young girl with a promising future whose life was taken too soon. Through the Obama Presidential Center, the Obamas are committed to helping young people like Hadiya find their own place in the world, and build lives worthy of their dreams.

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Hadiya Pendleton

Things To Explore Near The Atrium

  • Elie Wiesel Auditorium

    Located in the Forum, the Auditorium is a dynamic space that invites visitors to lean into their creativity through talks, spoken word, music, dance and more. His enduring legacy of Holocaust survivor, activists, and author Elie Wiesel lives on in the  auditorium: a space for people to tell their stories, engage in discourse, and ultimately find solutions to our world's most pressing issues. 

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  • Tafari’s Kitchen

    Tafari’s Kitchen is a casual dining experience honoring the legacy of former White House chef, Tafari Campbell, the local food traditions of the Obama family, and Chicago.

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Plan Your Visit

  • Getting to the Campus

    Map out your route to our campus before you visit.

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  • Museum

    Explore the remarkable story of President Obama and Michelle Obama and those who inspired their journey.

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  • Accessibility

    Check out all of the accessibility options across our campus.

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  • Sky Room

    Head to the top of the Museum and take in stunning views of the West and South Sides of Chicago. 

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  • The Shop

    Shop with purpose at the Obama Presidential Center store, where every purchase of curated merchandise and local artisan goods helps to inspire, empower, and connect people to change their world.

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  • Programs and Events

    Take a look at the performances, activities, and classes happening across the campus.

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