What We Were
“But it’s so Chicago. Boastful. Prideful… Such bluster I suspect also stems from our deep-rooted insecurities, that somehow we won’t be recognized as a world-class city. Who will honor us if we don’t honor ourselves?"
– Alex Kotlowitz
The year 2000 saw many transformative events. Sue the Tyrannosaurus Rex made her grand debut at the Field Museum, Barack Obama faced a tough loss in his congressional race against Black Panther member Bobby Rush, and the contentious 2000 presidential election culminated in a Supreme Court decision that halted the Florida vote recount, ultimately handing the presidency to George W. Bush. These pivotal moments continue to shape our world today.
Yet, amidst the changes, some aspects of life remain steadfast. Chicagoans still gather for religious services, flock to parades and festivals, and rely on public transportation to navigate their vibrant city. The photographs from this era capture both the public and private facets of Chicago life: children hopping over fences to play, a man grinning in his car with the window down (despite the frigid winter air), and a commuter allowing a pigeon to perch on their arm while waiting for the train. These snapshots of joy reveal the enduring spirit of Chicagoans and the traditions that persist.
Scroll down to explore a selection of photographs in the "What We Were" section. Clicking on any image will open its "media file" page, click the x in the top right corner to close the image and return to this exhibit page.
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- Travelers on the L
- St. Patrick's Day Parade
- Crossing the Street
- Sue the T-Rex's Unveiling
- Bobby Rush, Election Night
- Friends
- Chinese New Year Celebration
- Old Town Resident
- Protest Graffiti
- Pigeons on the L
- New Year on the Red Line
- Horse at the Drive-Through Window
- Obama Awaiting Congressional Election Results
- Girls Laughing
- Smiling in the Cold
- Cubs Game
- Neighborhood Kids
- Waiting for the L
- Election judge