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A new outdoor exhibit unveiled at Smith Memorial Playground and Playhouse in Philadelphia aims to educate young audiences about influential Black leaders who have significantly impacted both the city and beyond.
The 2025 “Leaders and Legends” exhibit marks its fifth anniversary this year.
This year’s honorees include a diverse range of prominent figures such as former Philadelphia Mayor Michael Nutter, education advocate Michael Burch, pioneering athlete Mo’ne Davis, and artist Nazeer Sabree. The exhibit also celebrates notable personalities like radio icon Patty Jackson, actress Quinta Brunson, the Koilor brothers—Richard and Mengistu, founders of Two Locals Brewing Company, economic justice leader Sharmain Matlock-Turner, storyteller Tiffani Dean, and the late abolitionist William Still.
The “Leaders and Legends” exhibit features ten large, double-sided posters that highlight each honoree with photographs and accessible biographies specifically crafted for younger audiences. While the majority of the figures honored are still living, the exhibit pays homage to William Still, a historic abolitionist who passed away in 1902.
The launch of the month-long display was kicked off by students from Community Partnership School and Universal Institute Charter School through an engaging scavenger hunt, where they searched for the depicted figures and took notes on the information presented. Following this interactive experience, participants gathered indoors for a panel discussion that included five honorees and descendants of William Still, who shared their personal stories and answered students’ inquiries.
Among those sharing insights was collage artist and painter Nazeer Sabree, who spoke candidly about how art played a crucial role in supporting him through personal struggles during his youth. He highlighted the lack of representation for local artists who matched his background, stating, “Art opened up all of these different doors and opportunities for me. I ended up being able to go to college. Last year, I was inducted into the Philadelphia Art Museum.”
Seven-year-old Phoenix Gatlin expressed that Sabree’s experiences resonated deeply with her. She noted, “He told me how his life was hard, and he used art to calm him down.”
Patty Jackson, a revered radio host in Philadelphia, also imparted her advice to the students. She emphasized the importance of kindness, saying, “Be kind… you never know what someone else is going through. Your attitude will affect your altitude.” Furthermore, she urged students to pursue their passions, reminding them that sometimes their gifts are evident from an early age.
Gatlin remarked on the significance of the speakers’ narratives, stating, “So they could see if they want to use that type of job so they could have a life like that.”
The exhibit will be available for viewing throughout the month of February, providing a vital educational resource and inspiration for the community.
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