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Level 5: We The People

The work of our democracy is never done. Journey through We the People and examine the role we all play in building and maintaining a more perfect union. On this floor, you will have the opportunity to hear from leaders and everyday people across the globe on how they’ve made lasting change.
An image of one of the digital screens in the “We The People” exhibit. The image is dotted with bright hues of pink and purple. There is an illustrated woman in the forefront of the picture, looking off into the distance. In the background of the screen are several faceless people walking into a building Below the screen is an interactive panel for visitors to the Museum to use.

Highlights

A More Inclusive America

The Obama administration believed government should serve all Americans and it was dedicated to improving equity, dignity, accessibility, and inclusion across the nation. Hear the stories of how ordinary people helped achieve extraordinary change and made possible progress on issues such as marriage equality and gender pay equity.

On the South Lawn, President Obama walks in the middle of a group of young men who are members of the Obama Foundation’s My Brother’s Keeper program. All have a range of light to deep skin tones. They are wearing a mix of casual and professional attire.
Innovating for Change

President Obama had a passion for understanding how technology and science were shaping our everyday world. Learn how the Obama administration brought together experts and harnessed resources to help solve the world's most pressing problems, while also inspiring a new generation of innovators.

President Barack Obama shooting from a marshmallow cannon at the White House Science Fair. The location is in the White House Dining Room. He is surrounded by several children of different races and ethnicities.
President Obama got the chance to shoot a marshmallow across the State Dining Room using 14-year-old inventor Joey Hudy’s “Extreme Marshmallow Cannon” during a White House Science Fair in 2012. Hudy designed and built the machine, which can launch the fluffy white confections up to 175 feet away using pressurized air.
Yes You Can!

For democracy to thrive, every generation must work to build a world where all people can flourish. Head over to Yes You Can! and design a customized digital button detailing your goals for creating positive change.

An image of “Yes You Can!” an interactive exhibit on Level 5 of the Obama Presidential Center Museum. There are several colorful makeshift buttons embedded into the walls. Below is a digital screen where visitors will have the opportunity to make their own buttons.

More on the Museum

Toward a more 1:1
See what is possible when ordinary people work together to enact change.
Learn more
Peoples House 1:1
Explore the presidential family’s time in the White House.
Learn more

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Visit
  • 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

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.

© 2026 The Barack Obama Foundation.