Join Chicago Studies and Shermann "Dilla" Thomas for a discussion on Chicago's rich but frequently little-known (or overly-maligned) history, highlighting the city's people, architecture, and global impact. This event is part of the University's broader Urban October initiative, which brings together policy leaders, public officials, community members and leading researchers from Chicago and around the world to focus on some of the most profound challenges facing global cities.

Voted Chicago Reader Magazine's 2021 Best Chicago Tiktok account and Best Chicago Twitter account, Shermann “Dilla” Thomas is a public historian who is changing the game. Dilla, as he is affectionately called, is a fascinating blend of modern historian, cultural worker, and public employee. A life-long resident of Chicago’s south side Auburn-Gresham neighborhood, Dilla began making Tik-Tok videos in an effort to bond with one of his 7 children. What started as a way to engage with his children, has lead to Dilla becoming an award winning historian and social media influencer for the city of Chicago and beyond.

Public Narrative has named Dilla the 2022 Studs Terkel Uplifting Voice recipient and Choose Chicago has named him 2022 Tourism Ambassador of the Year. The Chicago Public Library has awarded Dilla the 21st Century Award for his recent achievements in promoting Chicago to the world. Dilla has been independently studying the history of Chicago for over 20 years, and his candid and truthful reflection of that history can be felt in his videos and presentations. Join us this Fall to learn why "everything dope about America comes from Chicago" with Dilla the Historian.