WHEREAS, Black History Month is a time to recognize institutions that have shaped African American civic life in the City of Philadelphia; and
WHEREAS, Prince Hall Freemasonry was founded in 1775 by Prince Hall, a formerly enslaved African American abolitionist who advocated for education and civic participation during the Revolutionary era; and
WHEREAS, Philadelphia holds historical significance in the development of Prince Hall Freemasonry, as Pennsylvania became home to some of the earliest Prince Hall lodges in the United States; and
WHEREAS, Prince Hall lodges in Philadelphia were established at a time when African Americans were excluded from most fraternal and civic organizations; and
WHEREAS, These lodges provided formal meeting spaces where African Americans in Philadelphia could organize community efforts and exercise leadership, including a meeting space for the then developing Philadelphia chapter of The National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP); and
WHEREAS, Prince Hall Masons in Philadelphia supported local schools and churches through financial support and volunteer work; and
WHEREAS, Members of Prince Hall lodges in Philadelphia have served as educators and public servants within the City, including 4 members of the current Philadelphia City Council; and
WHEREAS, Prince Hall Freemasonry continues to maintain an active presence in Philadelphia through mentorship programs and scholarship support; and
WHEREAS, This history reflects a continuous tradition of African American self-organization in the City of Philadelphia; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, THAT THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA, Hereby honors and recognizes Prince Hall Freemasonry for its enduring contributions to the African American community and to the City of Philadelphia during Black History Month.
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