Institute of Politics

How Chicago Shaped Barack and Michelle Obama

Chicago played a vital role in shaping the political identities of Barack and Michelle Obama. This panel will present first person accounts from an oral history project that explores how Chicago's transformation from an industrial hub to a cutting-edge information economy parallels the political journey of Barack and Michelle Obama, shaping their unique identities and leadership styles. The panel, featuring founding IOP director David Axelrod, former chief of staff to Michelle Obama Susan Sher, and UChicago Associate Professor Adam Green will explore themes of community empowerment, civic engagement, home, race, and exceptionalism, and discover how the challenges and opportunities of Chicago propelled the Obamas to become seminal figures in American politics. Moderated by filmmaker Alicia Sams.

  • David Axelrod IOP Founding Director
  • Susan Sher Former Chief of Staff to Michelle Obama
  • Adam Green Associate Professor of American History, The University of Chicago
  • Alicia Sams Director, Pritzker Fellows Program, The University of Chicago Institute of Politics, Documentary Film Producer and Director

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