Neighborhood was the birthplace of the African American labor movement

Members of Illinois’ congressional delegation are taking the next step to establish a national park in Chicago’s historic Pullman neighborhood.

U.S. Sens. Dick Durbin and Mark Kirk and U.S. Rep. Robin Kelly have scheduled a news conference for Monday. They’ll announce joint legislation to give Pullman national park status.

Industrialist George Pullman founded the neighborhood in 1880. It was known for manufacturing Pullman Palace Sleeper Cars, which were considered the most luxurious railcar for almost a century.

The neighborhood also was the birthplace of the African American labor movement.

The National Park Service determined last year that Pullman has unique historical significance worthy of park status.