On July 3^rd, the Office of the City Representative produced HERstory: Uplifting Every Voice, which celebrated young women through the legacy of Marian Anderson within Art, Film and Music.  The inspiring event included guest speakers such as Tatiana Amaya, Member of the Philadelphia Youth Commission; President & CEO Michael DelBene, Wawa Welcome America Inc.; Bill Nicoletti, film producer; Helen McNutt, Vice Chair of the Slyvia W. And Randle M. Kauders Foundation; and Sheila Hess, City Representative. Entertainment was provided by DJ Shorty Wop, The Royal Mix and Aliyan Khayln.

Guests had the opportunity for a free screening of Once in a Hundred Years: The Life and Legacy of Marian Anderson documentary. The documentary tells the inspiring story of the musical icon from South Philadelphia whose performance at the Lincoln Memorial in 1939 helped set the stage for the civil rights era. Anderson’s voice broke through barriers closed to African Americans in the 1930s and was the first African American singer to perform at the White House and also the first African American to sing with the New York’s Metropolitan Opera.

The audience also enjoyed a panel discussion with Dyanna Willams, Radion One/WRNB 100.3 Philly; Paris Nicole, BOOM 103.9; Bri Steves, hip-hop artist and Mo’ne Davis who received the City of Philadelphia Liberty Bell.

To make a lasting impression but a temporary mark, Live Ink provided tattoos for guest with inspiring messages such as Girl Power, Yass Queen and #HERstory.

HERstory was a part of week-long activities through Wawa Welcome America and partnered with various City departments such as Mayor’s Office of Public Engagement, Office of Engagement for Women, Office of Youth Engagement and the Philadelphia Film Society. A special thank you to our presenting sponsor, The Sylvia W. and Randle M. Kauders Foundation.

Photos from HERstory can be found here.