07 Oct State of Illinois recognizes Oct. 10 at first-ever National Black Brewers Day in Illinois
10/7/25, For Immediate Release: For the first time ever, Governor Pritzker has issued a proclamation recognizing October 10 as National Black Brewers Day in the State of Illinois. The official proclamation was signed earlier this month in collaboration with the Illinois Craft Brewers Guild and National Black Brewers Association to recognize and celebrate the rich heritage and contributions of Black beer brewers across the industry. It is the first statewide celebration of its kind, drawing on the National Black Brewers Association successful introduction of Black Brewer’s Day nationally on October 10.
image credit: state of Illinois
“According to the National Black Brewers Association, fewer than 1% of breweries are Black owned. This recognition is a significant step toward honoring the contributions of Black brewers to our vibrant craft beer community and promoting diversity within the industry,” shared Ray Stout, executive director of the Illinois Craft Brewers Guild. “We are committed to fostering a diverse brewing landscape in Illinois and look forward to celebrating this important day as an industry.”
In 2021, the Illinois Craft Brewers Guild launched its annual Illinois Diversity in Brewing Scholarship. The scholarship aims to build a more inclusive, representative Illinois craft beer industry through equitable access to education and technical training. The Illinois Diversity in Brewing Scholarship is awarded to two individuals from historically underrepresented groups, including but not limited to individuals identifying as female, Black, indigenous, people of color, LGBTQ, and disabled. The scholarships can be applied to one of two courses offered by the Siebel Institute and the World Brewing Academy (WBA) and cover the full cost of the course.
There will also be a celebratory event at Turner Haus, Bronzeville (Chicago’s first Black-owned brewery and taproom) on October 10 at 5pm. There will be offerings from other Black-owned breweries in Illinois, including Moor’s Brewing, Funkytown, Black Horizon Brewing, and Harold’s ’83 honey beer.
You can view the proclamation from the Governor’s Office as well as general craft brewery and taproom b-roll here.
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