Chicago Aldermen Propose Renaming for Pope Leo XIV and Barack Obama

Chicago might soon pay tribute to two of its most iconic figures. On Wednesday, aldermen suggested ordinances to rename Northerly Island after Pope Leo XIV and an area of Wabash Avenue near Trump Tower as “Barack Hussein Obama Way.”

The proposals face a significant challenge. Current city and Park District rules prohibit naming streets and parks after living individuals. However, supporters believe exceptions should be made for Chicago’s remarkable pope and president. Alderman Raymond López, who put forth the proposal for “Pope Leo XIV Northerly Island,” expressed optimism. He mentioned an idea promoted by Mayor Brandon Johnson to honor Pope Leo XIV, suggesting a larger scale tribute.

López stated, “I think the best thing we could do is place Pope Leo XIV centrally in the city, using Northerly Island as an educational tool about Illinois’ most well-known Catholic.”

Meanwhile, Alderman Brendan Reilly proposed designating a section of Wabash Avenue downtown as “Barack Hussein Obama Way.” This proposal was inspired by an online petition that received 24,301 signatures in six weeks. Reilly’s plan would only affect the strip in front of Trump Tower, intended as a practical and swift acknowledgment.

Although the concept of officially renaming all of Wabash Avenue is appealing, Reilly cited potential costs. Changes would require new road signs, GPS updates, and revised maps, which would be expensive. His ordinance includes a clause to waive the rule that streets are named for deceased individuals.

“The goal is to make a statement. We removed an honorary street designation for Donald Trump years ago, and now seek to honor Barack Obama,” Reilly explained. “Since we cannot remove the sign from the tower, placing President Obama’s name on the street is an option.”

Previously, Alderman Lamont Robinson proposed the renaming of Columbus Drive in Obama’s honor in 2024, but it did not gain traction. Reilly mentioned no discussions with Obama or his staff about the current proposal. The Obama Presidential Center in Jackson Park is scheduled to open officially this Thursday, adding context to these renaming efforts.