Chicago Urban Historian, Shermann ‘Dilla’ Thomas, Joins The DuSable Museum


Chicago Urban Historian, Shermann ‘Dilla’ Thomas, Joins The DuSable Museum

Dilla will be supporting the museum as the new Brand Ambassador and Chief of Social Media

Chicago, IL (January 29, 2025) – The DuSable Black History Museum and Education Center announced today the hiring of Shermann “Dilla” Thomas as the new Brand Ambassador and Chief of Social Media. For the past 5 years, Dilla has been sharing the positive aspects of Chicago and its amazing history through engaging social content, community bus tours and most recently his show, “You Don’t Know Chi.”

“We are thrilled that Dilla is joining our DuSable team,” said Perri Irmer, President and CEO of The DuSable Black History Museum and Education Center. “His knowledge of Chicago’s rich history and his dynamic approach to social media and storytelling, will be a wonderful avenue to reach and engage with our community and with new audiences. We are excited for the future and look forward to the impact he will make in this new role.” 

“As a lifetime Chicagoan and champion of all-things south side, it is a dream fulfilled for me to join the team at The DuSable Black History Museum and Education Center," said Dilla. "I am a storyteller at heart, and there are endless chapters to be curated and shared at The Du. I can’t wait to get started.” 

Dilla’s career as a Chicago Historian took off during the pandemic with his bite-size history lessons, including telling the stories and unknown facts behind Chicago’s vibrant neighborhoods. His engaging content has gained him over 200,000 followers across his social media platforms. 

As Brand Ambassador and Chief of Social Media for The DuSable Museum, Dilla will use his expertise to elevate the museum’s presence and share its mission of preserving and celebrating the experiences of African Americans and of Black people worldwide.

“Now, more than ever, it is critical that we preserve and share our history to counterbalance any attempts to rewrite our stories," said Irmer. “Museums are some of the most important and most trusted sources of information, and we could not be prouder to unite our mission with Dilla’s, who’s been a driving force in bringing people together using positive and powerful narratives. His dedication to spreading truth and uplifting communities aligns perfectly with our commitment to teaching Black history and ensuring it is accurately shared with future generations.”

Dilla will be responsible for creating compelling content that resonates with the museum’s diverse audiences, and amplifying the museum’s community initiatives, exhibits, and educational programming as a brand ambassador.  


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