Who we are

The Black Metropolis Research Consortium (BMRC) is an expanding consortium of Chicago-based archives, libraries, and museums. Its mission is to connect all who seek to document, share, understand and preserve Black experiences. Through archival processing initiatives, research fellowships for scholars and artists, archival internships for students, and diverse public programming, the BMRC facilitates increased awareness of the experiences of African American and other African diaspora communities by expanding access to its members’ holdings of materials that document African American and African diaspora culture, history, and politics, with a specific focus on materials relating to Chicago.

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What does the Black Metropolis Research Consortium (BMRC) do?

DISCOVER COLLECTIONS ON BLACK EXPERIENCES

Find out about many of Chicago's rich primary resources related to Black history and culture now made accessible in one place!

Explore our Archives Collection

Recent News

green book
February 4, 2026

THE LAST GREEN BOOK: A Book Talk by Nia Easley

The BMRC invites you to a book talk with Chicago-based artist Nia Easley on her publication "The Last Green Book"

Photo of Anatolie Grosu
January 26, 2026

The BMRC Welcomes Spring Intern, Anatolie Grosu

The BMRC welcomes Anatolie Grosu, a student at the University of Illinois Chicago as its Spring intern

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January 16, 2026

Navigating Institutional Archives 101

Curious about working with archives but not sure where to start? Navigating Institutional Archives 101 is a beginner-friendly webinar for artists, researchers, and anyone interested in exploring Chicago’s rich archival landscape

View all BMRC News

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