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Ken Page explains the 1908 Race Riot and how its legacy continues in Springfield today

A burned home in the aftermath of the 1908 riot.
Courtesy of the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum

A burned home in the aftermath of the 1908 riot.

The 1908 Race Riot is a dark moment in Springfield’s history, yet many grew up not knowing about the tragedy that set back Black businesses and families for many years to come. President of the Springfield Chapter of the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) Ken Page spoke to Community Voices about the riot and how its legacy continues today. He also shared his experience growing up in Selma, Ala. during the civil rights movement and how it led him to the ACLU.

To learn more about the Springfield 1908 Race Riot visit: https://www.nps.gov/spra/index.htm

Vanessa was the Community Voices Production Coordinator at NPR Illinois from 2021-2025. She continues her passion for broadcasting as a co-host of the Beyond the Mouse podcast for the Front Row Network.
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