This fall, the Philadelphia City Archives opens a new exhibit: Teaching Freedom: The Education of Black Philadelphia, 1840-1976. It is our biggest event of the year. The exhibit is open from November 1, 2026, to January 15, 2027. On Thursday, November 5, we will also host a community symposium, a public panel discussion about the exhibit’s themes.

About the exhibit

Teaching Freedom tells the stories of Black teachers in Philadelphia. It also shows how Black Philadelphians got an education, from before the Civil War to the end of segregated schools. Many teachers, students and families worked hard for the chance to learn. Their work helped shape our city.

Come see the history, records and people behind Philadelphia’s education story. Then think about what this history means for our city today.

Community panel: November 5

On Thursday, November 5, from 6 to 8 p.m., join us at the City Archives. A panel of experts will talk about the past, present and future of Black education.

Dr. Wayne W. Williams of Temple University’s Fox School of Business will lead the talk. The panel includes:

• Sharif El-Mekki, founder and CEO of the Center for Black Educator Development
• Dr. David Thomas, vice chair of the board of The Fund for the
• School District of Philadelphia
• Kristin Green-Hayes, who runs the Center’s Freedom Schools Literacy Academy

We are proud to present this event with our partners: the Center for Black Educator Development, Temple University, Morgan State University, the African American Museum in Philadelphia and the Free Library of Philadelphia.

Plan your visit

Exhibit: November 1, 2026 through January 15, 2027

Symposium: Thursday, November 5, 6:00 to 8:00 p.m.

Location: Philadelphia City Archives, 548 Spring Garden Street, Philadelphia, PA 19123

Sign up for the November 5 panel today. RSVP on Eventbrite to save your seat. We hope to see you there!

 

Learn more from the Department of Records