Statement from the Board of Directors
The Board of Directors of the Historical Preservation Society of the Illinois Chapter of the Black Panther Party remains fully committed to the organization's mission to preserve, document, and present the history of the Illinois Chapter of the Black Panther Party.
Our Board, founding members, and advisors include former members of the Illinois Chapter of the Black Panther Party and the original Rainbow Coalition. We are an inclusive organization, and we remain committed to bringing people together.
As public attention has increased in recent days, we want our supporters, partners, donors, and the broader community to know that our work continues. The Black Panther Party Heritage Trail, educational programming, publications, archival initiatives, and public history projects remain our focus.
We respect the judicial process and will not comment on ongoing legal matters.
At the same time, we reject harassment, intimidation, threats, and personal attacks directed at any individual. We fully support our executive director, Leila Wills, and the work she does to preserve and share the history of the Illinois Chapter. Respectful dialogue and lawful conduct are essential to ensuring that this history remains accessible to future generations.
The Historical Preservation Society was founded to ensure that the stories, sites, and contributions of the Illinois Chapter are remembered, recognized, and accessible to future generations. That mission remains unchanged.
We thank our supporters for their continued encouragement and commitment. We look forward to sharing new Heritage Trail resources, educational materials, publications, and programs in the weeks ahead.
The work continues.
Board of Directors
Historical Preservation Society of the Illinois Chapter of the Black Panther Party
