On a warm Saturday afternoon in Chicago, two community centers, Nighthawk and the Inner-City Muslim Action Network (IMAN), were filled with creative and community-building activities.
Nighthawk, located in Albany Park, once operated as a typical bar. Its transformation into a vibrant arts venue involved David Chavez and his family reimagining its potential. Now, it hosts artists like Ace from Flip a Beat Club Chicago (FABC), who creates music with an MPC at the venue. According to FABC Chicago founder Cory Morrison, participants in these events use club-provided samples. These activities are livestreamed to engage a broader audience.
The bar’s co-managing partners, including Juan Bermudez and his relatives, have expanded the offerings at Nighthawk. It now includes live music, art exhibitions, and discussions on various topics. Chavez emphasized the importance of providing community activities beyond alcohol consumption. He stated, “Creating a third space for art-making and conversations about current events was essential.” Nighthawk strives to merge art with local activism, hosting events like documentary film discussions and community fundraisers.
Albany Park, a predominantly Latino neighborhood, faced significant challenges from Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) actions. Nighthawk responded with initiatives like whistle kit-making gatherings for community safety. David Chavez shared that these events drew large crowds and produced thousands of whistles for neighborhood protection.
At the same time, on Chicago’s South Side, IMAN confronted similar challenges. Led by Rami Nashashibi, IMAN addresses health, wellness, and healing. Nashashibi noted the role of arts in their mission, stating, “Art has been a vehicle to imagine solutions and organize communities facing trauma.” IMAN uses artistic expression to foster community resilience.
IMAN recently held a street fair in Englewood connecting residents with affordable fresh food, addressing the impact of federal food aid cuts. These efforts demonstrate their commitment to community well-being. Jannah Sellars, IMAN’s creative and cultural organizing manager, showcases art pieces and facilitates committee meetings at their headquarters, further illustrating their dedication to art and community.
Despite their different missions, Nighthawk and IMAN share common objectives. Both nurture local art and activism, strengthening community spirit and resilience. Their efforts show art’s power in uniting and uplifting communities. Edited for broadcast and digital formats, this story highlights the ongoing impact of community-driven initiatives in Chicago.