Kanye West joined educators, local officials, and rappers in Chicago on September 22, 2026, as the city unveiled an honorary sign for his late mother, Donda West . The South Shore corner at 78th Street and South Shore Drive is now also known as Dr. Donda West Way. The ceremony focused on Donda West’s more than 20 years at Chicago State University, where she led the English department and created the Gwendolyn Brooks Center for Black Literature and Creative Writing. Chicago State professor Garrard McClendon nominated her for the designation, according to CBS Chicago. Why This Chicago Tribute Hits Different The South Shore location carries personal weight for Kanye West, who grew up in the neighborhood and whose mother owned a home there. Kanye West purchased that property in 2020, and the house has been connected to plans for a youth arts space inspired by Donda West’s legacy. Rapper Rhymefest, rapper GLC, Cook County Clerk Monica Gordon, and Chicago school board member speakers also appeared at the ceremony. Kanye West did not give public remarks, but his connection to the tribute has been visible for years, including the replica of his childhood home featured during his 2021 Donda listening event at Soldier Field and two Chicago concerts held earlier in September 2026. Donda West died in 2007 at age 58. The honorary designation celebrates her teaching career and support for Black writers while keeping the original street name in place.