WHEREAS, Philadelphia Black Pride was founded in August 1999 and is celebrating its 27th anniversary this year. Originally known as Philadelphia Black Gay Pride, the organization is a vital force in advancing the cultural, social, and health needs of LGBTQ+ people of color in Philadelphia and beyond, fostering community engagement, empowerment, and visibility through its wide-ranging programs and events; and
WHEREAS, Three founding members, including Michael Hinson, Doreana Kearney, and Troy Steffey, instilled an ongoing commitment to public service in Philadelphia Black Gay Pride. The group’s goal continues to be to inspire and improve experiences of individuals through programs, community engagement, policies, advocacy, partnerships and relationship building; and
WHEREAS, Philly Black Pride has an ongoing core commitment to community development, youth development, outreach and mental wellness. This year, Philly Black Pride’s 27th Anniversary Celebration is titled Philly Black Pride 250: Changemakers of Philadelphia and is grounded in the truth that everyone should be able to embrace who they are, can define their future, and can change the world; and
WHEREAS, Philly Black Pride will host events Monday, April 20th through Sunday, April 26th. The events include a flag raising at City Hall, a Chocolate Social; a Queerly Beloved Open Mic Night; the Philly Black Pride Youth Party, Philly Black Pride 250 Opening Reception; Liberty, Love, & Black Philly Pride Run, a Rooted Wellness Session; a Gaymer Force Tournament; and Thrive, a Black LGBTQ+ Empowerment Summit; among others; and
WHEREAS, The Board of Directors of Philly Black Pride is a group of dedicated individuals responsible for overseeing the operations and direction of Philly Black Pride and includes Jacen Bowman, Le Thomas, Micheal Melvin, Robert Graves, Olu Solanke, Elijah Summers, Eric Cole, Céshia Elmore, and Rosko Scott as well as honorary board members Debroah Johnson, Landis Os, Keith Brooks, and Derek Smith; and
WHEREAS, As Black Queer people are increasingly under attack, facing a belligerent federal government, massive cuts to health programs, and an increase in discrimination and hate crimes, the importance of celebrating and uplifting changemakers and the community, learning, healing, organizing and celebrations that take place during Philly Black Pride are needed now more than ever; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, THAT THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA, Honors Philly Black Pride for its ongoing work to center and support the Black LGBTQ+ community, and recognizing Monday, April 20th through Sunday, April 26th as Philly Black Pride Week in the City of Philadelphia.
FURTHER RESOLVED, That an Engrossed copy of this Resolution be presented to Philly Black Pride as evidence of the admiration and respect of this body.
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