Former President Barack Obama and former first lady Michelle Obama will mark the opening of the Obama Presidential Center in Chicago with a ceremony featuring performances by Christina Aguilera, John Legend, Bruce Springsteen and U2’s Bono and The Edge, and more – bringing together some of the biggest names in rock, pop, and soul. The milestone celebration marks a pivotal moment for the South Side campus, which has been under development as a global cultural destination and community hub.
The invite-only dedication ceremony is scheduled for June 18 at the John Lewis Plaza on the South Side of Chicago and will be streamed globally through Obama.org and the Obama Foundation’s digital platforms. Additional performers and guests include Stevie Wonder, Jennifer Hudson, Eddie Vedder, Marc Anthony, Common, Tems, The Roots and actress Marsai Martin. Steven Spielberg and other prominent figures are also expected to attend.
The event launches a four-day celebration surrounding the opening of the 19.3-acre campus, which was built near Jackson Park, where Barack and Michelle Obama began their public lives. Foundation CEO Valerie Jarrett said in a statement that “This Grand Opening ceremony will be unlike any other – filled with music, performances, and hope,” adding that the gathering is intended to inspire people to believe in their ability to create change.”
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