IL HR0244

Acknowledges the 1917 East St. Louis Race Riot (July 2-3) as one of the worst race riots in American history, resulting in approximately 9 white deaths and nearly 200 black deaths, over 300 buildings destroyed, and $8,000,000 in damage (2017 dollars).

Describes the riot's context: rapid migration of African Americans to East St. Louis for factory jobs during World War I created racial tensions as white workers feared job competition, leading to initial violence on May 28, 1917, followed by larger massacres two months later.

Recognizes the violence included mob attacks on black neighborhoods, burning of homes and churches, beatings, hangings, drowning, and shooting with minimal police or military intervention until July 3-4, 1917.

Designates May 28, 2017 as a statewide day of remembrance in Illinois on the centennial of the events that precipitated the riot.

Honors the East St. Louis 1917 Centennial Commission and Cultural Initiative's efforts to promote remembrance, healing, awareness of the riot's impact, and celebration of the resilience of East St. Louis residents.