WHEREAS, Spiral Q was founded in 1996, and their mission is to “build strong and equitable communities characterized by creativity, joy, can-do attitudes, and the courage to act on their convictions.” Spiral Q is an interdisciplinary ensemble of artists, activists, and organizers who are creatively imagining a Philadelphia “whose streets reflect the full spectrum of its residents’ creativity. They envision a world of abundance that mobilizes its resources to nurture shared vitality”; and
WHEREAS, Spiral Q was founded by founded in 1995 by Matthew "Mattyboy" Hart and created as a community from work by queer and HIV/AIDS activists who worked to bring art and joy to a movement that was fighting back against constant death, discrimination and marginalization; and
WHEREAS, Spiral Q uses puppetry, street theater, pageantry, chants, and songs to promote social and political change and amplify the voices of everyday Philadelphians working towards collective liberation. This profound and necessary vision and mission engage over 3,500 people each year with more than 30,000 people experiencing their public works; and
WHEREAS, Spiral Q produces the annual Peoplehood Parade that starts from the Paul Robeson House and culminates in Clark Park. Through weeks long community art builds, rehearsals, and conversation, the Peoplehood process weaves together culture, justice, public space, and belonging, exemplifying the belief that art is not just decorative but intersectional. November 8, 2025, was the 25th Peoplehood Parade which activated the streets of West Philadelphia with giant puppets, banners, and performances that celebrate Philly’s justice movements and nurture community connections; and
WHEREAS, in a time of increasing division and uncertainty, Spiral Q continues to lead with abundance, hope, and compassion to envision a Philadelphia where everyone has a seat at the table. The 25th iteration of this beloved parade stands as a testament to the enduring power of community, creativity, and solidarity, reminding us that democracy is enriched and neighborhoods flourish, when art moves from the studio to the streets; now therefore, be it
RESOLVED, BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA, Hereby commends, congratulates, and thanks Spiral Q for its many years of artistic and liberatory contributions on the occasion of its 25th annual Peoplehood Parade.
FURTHER RESOLVED, That an Engrossed copy of this Resolution be presented to Spiral Q as evidence of the sincere sentiments of this legislative body.
End