Chicago Defender Building: A Landmark of Black Journalism
Visit the historic Chicago Defender Building, a Bronzeville landmark that championed civil rights and fueled the Great Migration.
The Chicago Defender Building, a historical landmark in Chicago's Bronzeville neighborhood, served as the headquarters for the Chicago Defender newspaper from 1920 to 1960. Founded in 1905, the Defender played a pivotal role in advocating for civil rights and encouraging the Great Migration of African Americans from the South.
A brief summary to Chicago Defender Building
- 3435 S Indiana Ave, Chicago, Douglas, Illinois, 60616, US
- +1312-225-2400
- Visit website
Local tips
- Explore the surrounding Bronzeville neighborhood to fully appreciate the cultural history and significance of the area.
- Check out nearby museums and cultural centers to gain a broader understanding of African American history in Chicago.
- Reflect on the impact of journalism and media on societal change while visiting this historic building.
Getting There
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Public Transport
The Chicago Defender Building is accessible via public transportation. From downtown Chicago, take the Green Line 'L' train to the Cermak-McCormick Place station. From there, walk east on Cermak Road, then turn left onto Indiana Avenue. The building will be on your right. A single ride on the 'L' train costs $2.50. Alternatively, several bus routes serve the area. A single bus fare is $2.25. Transfers between buses and trains are free within 2 hours.
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Walking
From McCormick Place, head north on Martin Luther King Jr. Drive. Turn left onto E Cermak Road, then left again onto S Indiana Ave. Continue north on Indiana Avenue; the Chicago Defender Building will be on your right. The walk is approximately 15 minutes. No costs are involved.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available throughout Chicago. A ride from downtown Chicago to the Chicago Defender Building will typically cost between $15 and $25, depending on traffic and surge pricing. Be sure to confirm the fare before you start your trip. Drop-off is directly in front of the building at 3435 S Indiana Ave.
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