DeKalb veteran inspired to curate photo exhibit on Black military service members

DeKALB – Veteran Daniel “Doc” Habeel said he’s long felt that stories of the nation’s Black military service members go untold far too often.

One day, Habeel, who used to own and operate the RTW Veterans Center in Chicago, decided to do something about it.

Whether it be to serve up a communal meal or provide space for fellowship, the center was an institution established in 2000 that many people turned to in times of need.

As a DeKalb resident, Habeel said it’s clear that morale was at issue in retrospect.

“We began to notice that the spirit of patriotism was real low among the people,” Habeel said. “When we dug into it, it’s because they didn’t feel they were citizens of the country.”

[ On being Black and brave: DeKalb man turns military struggles into acts of service ]

The idea of a traveling photo exhibit grew from there, said Habeel, a U.S. Army veteran.

He named it “A Picture Exhibit of African American Patriots.” The exhibit ran throughout November at DeKalb First United Methodist Church, the DeKalb Public Library, Northern Illinois University and the Sycamore Public Library.

Habeel’s exhibit showcases images from 10 wars and one conflict, spanning Operation Desert Storm during the Golf War to 2024.

“This is American history. When we did this, we wanted to show African Americans that you’ve already paid the price for citizenship.”

—  Daniel "Doc" Habeel

Habeel said he doesn’t believe public schools have done their job to educate students about African American history as they should.

He said he believes his exhibit allowed him to step in and become part of the solution for area students.

“This is American history,” Habeel said. “When we did this, we wanted to show African Americans that you’ve already paid the price for citizenship.”

In the exhibit, Habeel includes photos of his uncle, Kenneth Glover, and his father, Lt. William George II. Habeel said both men fought in World War II because of the Double V Campaign.

Launched in 1942, the Double V Campaign was an initiative meant to recruit more Black Americans to fight in the war.

Habeel’s exhibit also features notable figures such as former President Barack Obama and former Secretary of State Colin Powell.

Habeel said people who frequented the exhibit have had positive things to share about their experiences.

“We got over 60 reviews positive,” Habeel said. “They were excited. The people are excited to learn this about history.”

Habeel said it’s clear that the country has made strides with promoting diversity, equity and inclusion in his lifetime.

“Most of the defense is on us now,” Habeel said. “It’s in our hands, nobody else’s hands.”

Habeel said the exhibit is expected to start making the rounds again in February, just in time for Black History Month.

As of Wednesday, reopen dates still are pending for the exhibit.