2026 Valentine's Day Event
Presented by Landmarks Illinois Skyline Council & community partners
The Skyline Council of Landmarks Illinois joined the Calumet Area Industrial Commission, American Legion South Deering Post #1238 and 10th Ward Ald. Peter Chico’s office to decorate Our Lady of Guadalupe Vietnam Veterans Memorial Mural in South Chicago on Valentine’s Day.
The Our Lady of Guadalupe Vietnam Veterans Memorial Mural was dedicated in 1970 to honor the sacrifices of veterans. The mural features portraits of 12 young men from the church parish, along with the names of many other men who sacrificed their lives during the Vietnam War. The mural also features an image of Our Lady of Guadalupe and a poem, “Remembrance and Acceptance” by V.C. and M.V.E. (1990). The mural highlights the deep connection between Mexican American culture and military sacrifice and remains an important gathering place for South Chicago families to honor the lives of loved ones.
After more than 50 years of environmental exposure, the building’s masonry and the mural require maintenance. Latinos in Heritage Conservation named it one of its 2025 Endangered Latinx Landmarks. The American Legion South Deering Post 1238 has led fundraising efforts to restore the mural, with support from local partners including the Calumet Area Industrial Commission and Alderman Peter Chico’s office (10th Ward).
The groups aim to raise $100,000 for the mural restoration after masonry repairs on the building are completed. Landmarks Illinois has awarded the Calumet Area Industrial Commission $10,000 through the Timuel D. Black Grant Fund for Chicago’s South Side to aid in these efforts.
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