Undocumented IL - A Night of Unapologetic Art, Music, and Spoken Word

Hi everyone, Liane here!

A classmate of mine told me about an event she was going to that supported undocumented persons living in Chicago hosted by The Museum of Mexican Art. I wanted to go along to learn more about this group of people, and hear their stories about life as an undocumented resident of the city.

Here is the handout which listed all of the artists and performers at the night's event. To learn more about the organization Undocumented IL, please refer to the first paragraph found on this handout. You can also visit their website: http://www.iyjl.org/undocuil/

Undocumented IL: Event's artists and performers

It was such a lively atmosphere to step into. People of all ages and backgrounds filled the room as they wandered around looking at art. There was a wide variety of art forms such as sculpture, paintings, drawings, photography, and mixed media. Every piece on display was available for purchase, with the proceeds going towards fundraising for the organization.

The Undocumented IL event's art display.

A sample of paintings on display at the Undocumented IL event.

A painting from the Undocumented IL art display.

 

An ink drawing with a high gloss varnish on display at the Undocumented IL event.

A selection of prints on display at the Undocumented IL event.

The event also had numerous performers on stage doing spoken word, rapping, and singing. Every piece was an exploration and expression of the experience of being an undocumented resident of Chicago themselves, or being the children of undocumented parents. Hearing their stories was extremely powerful. One of the most impactful themes I heard while at this event was about the pain and frustration of not being able to live without freely.

A spoken word artist performing at the Undocumented IL event.

A band performing at the Undocumented IL event.

The night fostered a spirit of celebrating the true identities of those who are labeled as "undocumented." The main message was to be unapologetic for having a status of undocumented. The work that is being done my this organization is truly inspiring!