A new 25-foot stainless steel monument is set to be built in Chicago’s Illinois Medical District, honoring victims of COVID-19 and front-line workers who helped limit its spread. The monument, titled “COVID-19 Memorial Monument of Honor, Remembrance & Resilience,” will be unveiled this fall. Designed by sculptor Casey Schachner, the five illuminated sculptures resemble a hybrid of a dandelion puff and the COVID-19 virus, symbolizing universality and resilience.
The monument is part of a larger effort to create a community space for reflection, meditation, and healing. A green area with benches will be added, along with a virtual Memory Garden where donors can “plant a dandelion” in honor of front-line workers and loved ones who’ve passed away. The project was launched by the COVID-19 Monument Commission, led by art historian Sally Metzler, which aims to raise awareness and funds for the monument’s construction.
The commission consists of more than 12 experts from various fields and has secured over $20,000 in funding so far. Construction is expected to begin this summer, pending final details. The project seeks to promote hope and resilience in a place that honors the sacrifices of healthcare workers during the pandemic.
According to the World Health Organization, over 7 million people have died since the COVID-19 pandemic began in March 2020. The monument aims to provide a fitting tribute to those who lost their lives and celebrate the bravery and dedication of front-line workers.
Source: https://chicago.suntimes.com/2025/02/10/covid-19-monument-frontline-workers-near-west-side