Tems to Perform at Opening of Obama Presidential Centre

Nigerian Grammy-winning singer Tems is set to perform at the opening ceremony of the Obama Presidential Centre in Chicago. This announcement follows the unveiling of a portrait of Barack and Michelle Obama by artist Njideka Akunyili-Crosby for the center. The Obama Presidential Centre, established by the former president and his wife, is designed as a community and cultural hub on Chicago's South Side. It aims to celebrate leadership, public service, and community engagement, preserving Obama's legacy through exhibits, educational spaces, museums, and public gardens. The center officially opens to the public on June 19. Tems will share the stage with notable artists such as Stevie Wonder, John Legend, Eddie Vedder, and Jennifer Hudson on Thursday. Other performers announced by Obama via Instagram include Bono, The Edge, Bruce Springsteen, Christina Aguilera, Common, and The Roots. American actress Marsai Martin will also participate, while former advisor Valerie Jarrett and businessman Marty Nesbitt will deliver remarks. Obama described the performers as prominent voices and global icons. He also expressed deep gratitude for the collective effort in bringing the center to fruition, specifically mentioning his mother-in-law, Marian Robinson, and father-in-law, Fraser Robinson, for their love, hope, and wisdom in making a home on the South Side. Michelle Obama highlighted the center's significance, particularly its opening on the South Side where she grew up, Obama began his career, and they raised their daughters, emphasizing its role in empowering local youth.

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I got a little teary-eyed tonight thinking about my mother-in-law, Marian Robinson. She made a home for Michelle and Craig here on the South Side of Chicago, not with a lot, but with a lot of love and hope and perspective and wisdom, and her husband, Fraser Robinson, who got up every day and went down right next to Navy Pier, working in the water reclamation district. He showed what it means to work hard and to put family first. I love my mother-in-law, and she made a home for Michelle and Craig, not with a lot, but with a lot of love, hope, and perspective. They represent to me what’s best about this country.