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Chicago historian, social media star lands dream job at Black history museum
Like many kids who grew up in Chicago, Shermann "Dilla" Thomas made several visits to the DuSable Black History Museum. That story has come full circle as the historian joined the museum for his "dream job."
CHICAGO - One of Chicago’s most beloved historians, Shermann "Dilla" Thomas, is joining the DuSable Black History Museum and Education Center.
Thomas will serve as the museum’s new brand ambassador and chief of social media.
He’s made a name for himself talking about Chicago history on various social media platforms and giving tours of city neighborhoods.
A ‘dream job’
What we know:
Thomas’ videos talking about the history of Chicago have garnered millions of views. He’s known for saying, "Everything dope about America comes from Chicago."
"It’s absolutely my dream job to tell the stories of Chicago, and particularly to be telling the stories of Black Chicago from such an anchoring as the DuSable Museum for Black history," he said.
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Popular Chicago historian joins DuSable Black History Museum
Shermann "Dilla" Thomas, a Chicago historian popular on social media, has joined the DuSable Black History Museum and Education Center.
In the new role, Thomas will use his expertise to "elevate the museum’s presence" and share its mission of preserving and elevating the experiences of Black people in the U.S. and around the world, according to a museum press release.
Not your typical historian
What they're saying:
Thomas said he wants to emphasize inclusivity in his history lessons and storytelling.
"I try to make sure that everybody who’s listening to me or who’s on my bus, who’s watching my videos is able to understand and feel invited to the story of Chicago," he said. "Chicago is indeed the greatest city on earth and so we’re that great city because of all the people that make this city great."
Thomas added that the other key aspect of his work is that he’s "authentically" himself.
"I’m not your typical historian with tweed jacket and elbow pads on," he said. "But I am a person that respects history. I do a lot of research. I make sure that I’m presenting factual information."
To learn more about the museum's offerings and programs, visit dusablemuseum.org.