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Obama Presidential Center opening draws celebs, politicians: Updates
USA Today • • nation
Key Points:
- Former President Barack Obama and Michelle Obama will officially open the Obama Presidential Center in Chicago on June 18, followed by a public opening on Juneteenth, June 19.
- The 19-acre center includes a museum, a Chicago Public Library branch, an athletic center, civic spaces, a playground, and a garden inspired by Michelle Obama's White House Kitchen Garden, funded by private donations and public infrastructure funds.
- The center is a privately operated institution, not part of the National Archives presidential library system, with Obama’s presidential documents digitized and available online.
- The grand opening will feature prominent attendees including former Presidents Joe Biden, Bill Clinton, and George W. Bush, but notably not Donald Trump, highlighting ongoing tensions between Obama and Trump.
- Renowned musicians such as Bruce Springsteen, Stevie Wonder, Jennifer Hudson, and U2’s Bono and The Edge will perform at the star-studded opening ceremony.
