IL SR0337

Acknowledges the 1917 East St. Louis Race Riot (July 2-3) as one of the worst race riots in American history, occurring shortly after America's entry into World War I.

Documents the violence: approximately 200 African Americans and 9 whites killed, over 300 buildings destroyed, over $8,000,000 in damage (2017 dollars), and 6,000 people displaced from their homes.

Describes the riot's origins in racial tensions sparked by competition for jobs during the Great Migration, when approximately 2,000 African Americans arrived in East St. Louis weekly beginning spring 1917.

Establishes May 28, 2017 as a day of remembrance in Illinois on the centennial of the events that precipitated the 1917 East St. Louis Race Riot.

Recognizes the East St. Louis 1917 Centennial Commission and Cultural Initiative's centennial observance activities promoting remembrance, healing, and awareness of the riot's social, political, and cultural impact.