From hope to history

Ten years ago you helped make history — now you've helped us write it.

From Hope to History

We're launching a story collection archive to preserve your memories from 2008.

We’re bringing to life a museum that will tell the story of the Obama presidency. It will live within the new Obama Presidential Center being built on Chicago’s South Side, and serve as a testament to how ordinary people can create extraordinary change in their communities and in their countries.

So when it comes to telling the story of the historic 2008 election, it’s not just about a candidate or a campaign — it’s about the millions of people who got involved to bring about change. Telling that story is no small task, which is why we asked for your help.

Whether you voted for the first time, or watched your grandparents vote for the first time, whether you caucused in the Iowa winter, or knocked on doors in the Florida heat, whether you celebrated with thousands in Grant Park or tuned in from around the world, we heard your stories.

The sights. The sounds. What you were wearing. How you felt. Who you called. The moments you remember most.  Together, we captured the emotions and significance of that November night  and the work that made it possible, culminating in an extremely cold January day on the National Mall in Washington, DC.

Some of your stories will become part of museum exhibits, and your memories will help form a rich archive, both physical and digital, for future generations to learn about this historic election through the words of those who lived it.

We couldn’t have done this work without you. Read on to take it back 10 years, when a campaign rooted in hope, became written in history.

A crowd of people cheering with their arms in the air. At the center is a trio holding an American flag. Other people hold up cameras.

Relive the 2008 Election

We gladly accepted personal narratives in the form of original, unedited audio and video recorded interviews, reflecting on President Obama’s historic election and inauguration on January 20, 2009 and thank the thousands of you who took the time to share your memories. Please note we stopped accepting submissions on February 1, 2019 at 5pm ET.

Explore the 2008 Election Time Machine

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2008 Election Time Machine

Relive the 2008 election through the eyes and the words of those who lived it.

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We need your help to turn hope into action—to inspire, empower, and connect people to change their world.

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  • 6001 S. Stony Island Ave.
  • 1-(773)-900-0044
  • The Museum

    The Obama Presidential Center Museum is a world-class landmark that tells the story of our democracy through the lens of America’s first Black president and First Lady. Dynamic exhibits across four floors will highlight the events, policies, challenges, and accomplishments of the Obama presidency. The Museum is comprised of four levels of exhibitions and the Sky Room, a 5,000 square foot space that offers soul-stirring perspective and panoramic views of Chicago. Entry to the Museum is by time-ticket or event participation. Monday | 1 - 8 p.m. CTTuesday - Sunday | 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. CT

  • Forum Building

    The Forum Building is a vibrant community center that celebrates creativity and innovation. The Forum’s two levels are brought to life through power performances at the Elie Wiesel Auditorium, creative forms of expression in the Media Suite, and collaborative thinking in the Democracy in Action Labs. The Forum also features the Hadiya Pendleton Atrium, Tafari’s Kitchen, our Cafe, two courtyards, and one-of-kind pieces of art by Theaster Gates, Spencer Finch, and Tyanna Buie. Monday | 1 p.m. - 8 p.m. Tuesday-Sunday | 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.

  • Home Court

    Home Court is a 60,000-square-foot athletic and events space designed to strengthen the entire community and motivate people of all ages. Home Court offers programs inspired by President Obama's belief in the power of sports, mentorship, and connection. The two level space includes an NBA-sized regulation basketball court, seven flexible multipurpose rooms, two outdoor courtyards, and several multi-level seating areas for visitors.Monday - Sunday 12 p.m. - 8 p.m. CT

  • Chicago Public Library, Obama Presidential Center Branch

    Libraries are the beating heart of a strong democratic culture. Here we welcome local residents, scholars, and visitors from around the world to connect, reflect, and act. The Obama Presidential Center campus features a new branch of the Chicago Public Library that celebrates the rich history of Chicago’s public libraries and the powerful legacy of the Obamas. The Library Branch includes a YOUMedia Suite, a City Maker’s Space, a Children’s Area, and the exclusive President’s Reading Room, a collection of written works that reflect the interests, histories, and readings of President and Mrs. Obama.Mon & Wed12 - 8 p.m. CTTues & Thur10 a.m. - 6 p.m. CTFri & Sat9 a.m. - 5 p.m. CTSun1 -5 p.m. CT

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The Obama Foundation is a nonpartisan 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization on a mission to inspire, empower, and connect people to change their world. Read more  about our tax-exempt status.

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