February is Black History Month. U.S. History is nothing without African American History and neither is Philadelphia. Philadelphia is described as the City of Brotherly Love meaning those to the right and left of us are our brothers and sisters. A city filled with love, strength, and diversity. One that would be lifeless without culture, traditions, and trends. It’s a city home to musicians, actors, artists, craftsmen, chefs, and so much more. And a city that is home to hundreds of black owned businesses and counting.
Philly PR Girl is celebrating and amplifying black voices by telling you how you can contribute to the culture. From food to art, the City of Philly is beyond rich with resources and comfort. As a way to celebrate, we gathered a few resources to get you started in the celebration throughout Black History Month!
HeART of the city
Just like pictures, art is worth a thousand words. Philadelphia as we know it is the powerhouse for creativity, murals, and galleries throughout the city. Take a journey through the lens of an artist and explore the colorful and powerful work displayed for everyone to see. Here are some great places with phenomenal exhibits!
- African American Museum of Philadelphia – Founded in 1976 with a history so rich and rooted into its culture, the African American Museum made its debut in Philadelphia. Because this was the first institution funded to display African American heritage, the evergrowing history within the institution will take you places unseen to unfold stories you’ve never heard of.
- The Ellen Powell Tiberino Memorial Museum – Ellen Powell Tiberino was one of Philadelphia’s most beloved and expressive artists ever was the streets. Her love for art and teaching others was in depth and fulfilling.
“For decades, the Tiberinos have created artistic gathering spaces, such as The Bacchanal, that have contributed to the cultural vibrancy of Philadelphia and inspired artists throughout the region. “
- Philadelphia Museum of Art – Art is worth more than a thousand words, especially at the Philadelphia Museum of Art. With exhibits constantly changing and amplifying stories it’s a must that you visit when you have the opportunity.
- The Colored Girls Museum – The history of the African Diaspora goes for miles at The Colored Girls Museum. Through troubles and success, the stories will forever leave a long lasting impact.
For the love of giving
What would the City of Brotherly Love be without what it needs most – love? Even before the pandemic, life wasn’t always easy. The city that keeps on giving has shaped us in more ways than we can imagine. You can make an impact by contributing to some amazing organizations here in Philadelphia.
- Philadelphia Bail Fund – THE PBF is an organization that assists Philadelphians afford bail. A majority of the people who can’t afford it live in poverty and risk losing all they have for crimes they didn’t commit. You can support those by visiting their website.
- Philadelphia Black Giving Circle – The PBGC is an organization that comes together about a common issue within the community and collects donations to make a powerful impact.
Home Sweet Home
The heart and soul of any family is always food. No matter if you come home from college, the military, a long day at virtual work, or even just a long day. African American cuisine is more than just spices and flavor, it’s about creating recipes filled with joy, love, and authenticity. We are highlighting some of our favorite Black Owned Restaurants here in Philly. We’ve got you covered from brunch with friends to Sunday dinners with family.
- Cloud Cups – Infused? Don’t mind if I do! This CBD infused has treats that will take you to new heights. From gelatos to sorbet Cloud Cups are shaping the way we intake cannabis.
- Keven Parker’s Soul Food Cafe – The sweet smell of candied yams, crispy crunch of fried fish, savory taste mac & cheese sets the scene for how outstanding Kevin Parker’s Soul Food Cafe is. With locations in the Reading Terminal Market and at Ms.Tootsie’s RBL there is no other way to set the mood and wine down with a home cooked meal that will leave you speechless.
- Good Karma Cafe – With a clear heart, mind, and soul Good Karma was created in 2007. What goes around comes around is a perfect way to describe this cafe! It is one that strives to always be better.
There are dozens of ways to get involved during Black History Month. Every week this month, we’ll be featuring some of our favorite Black Owned Businesses right here in Philadelphia. Stay tuned to see a variety of businesses, from art to restaurants and everything in between featured this month.
