The Illinois Holocaust Museum and Education Center has inaugurated a temporary exhibition space in Chicago's River North district, following an $8 million renovation of its main facility in Skokie. The Skokie museum is slated to partially reopen in January 2026, with a full reopening expected in the summer.
Located at 360 N. State St., the temporary space features a mural by Chicago artist Ryan Duggan, commemorating a 1977 anti-Nazi protest in Skokie. Visitors can also interact with AI-generated holograms of Holocaust survivors, allowing them to ask questions and learn about personal experiences.
Governor JB Pritzker, a longstanding supporter of the museum, emphasized its importance in combating rising global hate, antisemitism, and authoritarianism. He highlighted the museum's role in educating the public and preserving the memory of the Holocaust.
The exhibit, titled "A Panoramic View Through History and Time," is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., with ticket prices ranging from free to $12. The museum's commitment to education and remembrance continues through this temporary space, ensuring that visitors can engage with its mission during the renovation period.
The Illinois Holocaust Museum's efforts reflect a broader commitment to preserving history and educating future generations about the atrocities of the past. By providing access to these important narratives, the museum plays a crucial role in fostering understanding and preventing history from repeating itself.