Former President Barack Obama formally opened the Obama Presidential Center in Chicago on Thursday, using the moment to urge Americans to defend democratic values as three former presidents joined him on stage during a high-profile dedication ceremony.
“I hope this center will serve as an affirmation of just how special, how precious our democracy truly is,” Obama said, calling on citizens to embrace their shared responsibilities.
The invite-only event brought together former presidents Joe Biden, George W. Bush and Bill Clinton, along with former first ladies Jill Biden, Laura Bush and Hillary Rodham Clinton. Former Vice President Kamala Harris and other Democratic leaders were among those in attendance.
Ceremony
The opening featured performances by musicians and artists from across genres. Bono, John Legend, Christina Aguilera, Marc Anthony and Eddie Vedder appeared earlier in the program, with Bruce Springsteen and Stevie Wonder closing the show together.
Jennifer Hudson sang the national anthem, Aguilera performed “What a Wonderful World,” and Vedder debuted an original song written for the dedication. Springsteen performed “Land of Hopes and Dreams,” while Wonder closed the evening with “Higher Ground,” joined by earlier performers.
President Donald Trump did not attend and was not referenced during the event. Trump has previously criticized the $850 million project on social media.
Message
Obama spoke about character, integrity and public service, praising leaders from both political parties, including former Republican rivals John McCain and Mitt Romney.
“Every president here today, as different as we are, has tried our best to uphold values they believed in no less than I did,” Obama said.
Reflecting on his early years in Chicago, Obama said the city shaped both his personal and political life, from meeting Michelle Obama to launching his first campaign.
“This is an expression of thanks,” he said, crediting Chicago communities for much of what he holds dear.
Michelle Obama
Michelle Obama addressed the crowd with a personal tribute to her husband, praising his leadership and resilience during eight years in office.
“Not once did you let it harden you,” she said, citing accomplishments such as the raid that killed Osama bin Laden, support for marriage equality and reliance on science-based decision-making.
She also acknowledged current national tensions, describing the center as a place for reflection during uncertain and divisive times.
Center
Valerie Jarrett, chief executive of the Obama Foundation, emphasized that the center is not meant to glorify the former president personally.
“This is not a monument to the Obamas,” Jarrett said. “This is a tribute to all those who made this journey possible.”
Obama noted that the exhibits address both achievements and unresolved challenges, including political polarization during his presidency.
Attendance
The audience included civil rights leaders, entertainers, athletes and former world leaders, including former German Chancellor Angela Merkel and former Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau.
The three-hour ceremony was livestreamed to the public, with thousands gathering in a nearby park. The center opens to the general public on Juneteenth, with general admission tickets sold out through October. The nearly 20-acre campus is expected to draw more than one million visitors annually.
FAQs
Where is the Obama Presidential Center located?
The center is located in Chicago.
Who attended the opening ceremony?
Three former presidents and many public figures attended.
What message did Obama emphasize?
He urged Americans to defend democracy.
When does the center open to the public?
It opens to the public on Juneteenth.
How many visitors are expected annually?
More than one million visitors a year.
