The grand opening of former President Barack Obama’s presidential center was a who’s who of American influence, drawing four former presidents, world leaders, and some of the biggest names in entertainment to Chicago’s South Side.
The 20-acre campus, which cost $850 million, includes a public library, playground, and sports facilities commemorating Obama’s presidency from 2009 to 2017. Among those in attendance on Thursday were former Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, former German Chancellor Angela Merkel, Oprah Winfrey, Stevie Wonder, and Tom Hanks.
The opening brought together four former presidents: Obama, Joe Biden, George W. Bush, and Bill Clinton. They were joined by Obama’s wife, Michelle, and their daughters, Malia and Sasha, to celebrate the culmination of a project that has been in the works since he left the White House.
A Star-Studded Guest List
The entertainment world turned out in force for the occasion. Bruce Springsteen, Christina Aguilera, Bono, and Jennifer Hudson performed. Springsteen, a longtime friend of Obama, gave a rendition of Louis Armstrong’s “What a Wonderful World.” Hudson, who grew up in Chicago, made the opening a homecoming for the EGOT-winning singer and actor.
David Letterman, Stephen Colbert, and Conan O’Brien all attended, as did NBA legend Dwyane Wade with his wife, actor Gabrielle Union. Steven Spielberg, a longtime friend of Obama and an honoree of the center, was also present.
Oprah Winfrey, an honoree of the center, endorsed Obama before he had even declared his candidacy for president and has remained one of his longest-standing and most influential supporters. Tyler Perry, who has hosted fundraisers for Obama and built a fortune through his Madea franchise, also attended.
The Obama Presidential Center
The center, located in Chicago’s Jackson Park on the South Side, is designed to be a living memorial to Obama’s presidency. It includes a museum, a public library, and community spaces. The project has been seen as a transformative effort for the area, though it has also faced criticism over costs and the use of public parkland.
The opening ceremony marked a moment of bipartisan unity, with Bush and Clinton joining Obama and Biden on stage. The event was a reminder of a different era in American politics, as the nation faces deep partisan divisions ahead of the midterm elections.
The Bottom Line
The Obama Presidential Center officially opened in Chicago with a star-studded ceremony featuring four former US presidents, international leaders, and celebrities including Oprah Winfrey, Tom Hanks, and Bruce Springsteen. The $850 million campus on Chicago’s South Side commemorates Barack Obama’s presidency and includes a museum, library, and community spaces.
